A Death-Defying Escape is the personal story of Judy Carter, a magician turned comedian with a vast experience in the industry. This play it’s a journey that takes you into some pretty dark places, where life inflicts physical and emotional pain without discriminating age, race, or religion. It’s in those places where Judy learned how to cope with reality, using magic and comedy not only as a way to escape, but also as a way to connect with her loved ones.
Being a child with a severe speech impediment, having a sister with cerebral palsy, and having a father with drinking issues, taught Judy at a very early age that she needed to find a way to improve her situation and that of her beloved sister Marsha. If you add to the story the fact that being a lesbian was a scandal back in the day, then you have a perfect recipe for a storm. The beauty of this play is that Judy finds a very entertaining way to tell her story using the same elements she used to escape her reality, magic and comedy. From her early days at the family home, her days at the Magic Castle, to her experiences coming out and finding love, Judy delivers punch line after punch line that shows you that life can be fun even in the most adverse circumstances.
The script is a reflection of Judy’s experience performing on stage. Her perfect balance of magic, comedy, and storytelling, makes this a true gem of a play. Even when she reveals her lowest points in life, the lighting and background noises are carefully crafted to really make an impact. Yes, it s is a memorable play that will trigger a conversation on so many issues.
Joining Judy on stage are excellent actors Lyndsi LaRose (playing Mom and Samantha) and Kevin Scott Allen (playing Father, Grandma, and Assistant). The three of them deliver a magnificent performance where the script and their acting skills take over the stage, no fancy props needed.
A Death-Defying Escape is a play not to be missed. It might take you out of your comfort zone, it might show you the dark side of life, but it will move you, and it will inspire you to dream and to connect with the most important things in life.
A Death-Defying Escape
Written by Judy Carter, directed by Lee Costello, presented by Comedy Workshop Productions
Hudson Guild Theater
6539 Santa Monica Blvd,
Los Angeles, CA 90038
Performances: April 2 – May 15:
• Saturdays at 8 p.m.: March 26 (Preview), April 2 (Opening), April 9, April 16, April 23. April 30, May 7, May 14
• Sundays at 3 p.m.: March 27 (Preview), April 3, April 10, April 17, April 24, May 1, May 8, May 15
Tickets: https://deathdefyingescape.com/
