“The Nativity Variations” reviewed by Amy Menzel

[rating=4]To quote Uncle Eddie from National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (because ‘tis the season), “This is just a real nice surprise.” I didn’t know what to expect from the world premier of award-winning playwright Catherine Trieschmann’s newest show, and I’m pretty sure I would have never imagined what I saw Sunday evening at the Milwaukee Rep. Charged with writing and directing a Christmas-themed production, Jules (character, not to be confused with the Rep’s director, Shelley Butler, who pulled everything out of this cast) stages a few variations of the nativity scene, looking to strike a balance between her creative nature and Father Juan’s more traditional perspective. It takes a few tries.

The first variation is difficult to describe. I’ll say this: there’s a lot of blood. The second variation is Shakespearean – sort of. And the third involves puppetry…and the most adult humor in a decidedly adult show. Like I said, I would have never come up with this myself, and I’m glad Trieschmann did.

Theater is a lot of fun when a script allows the players to play, and this script does just that. And this cast! I would – no, I will – seek out productions featuring any one of these actors in the future. The show works because every actor portrays a distinct character with their own motivations who are also mutually committed and motivated to create meaningful community theater together.

Collectively, their comedic timing is on point. Here are a couple other notes on timing:

If you grab a beverage, such as one of the cocktail specials for this production, the Peppermint Pattie or a Kentucky Winter, at the Rep’s Concessions Bar, be careful when you sip. I had to hold back an actual spit-take of cabernet at one point during the second act. Timing really is everything.
The timing of this production is perfect! Obviously, Christmas is right around the corner, but Thanksgiving is later this week. In case you have an awkward and/or challenging Thanksgiving celebration, the Rep is here with some laughs for you.

Fans of Christopher Guest’s Waiting for Guffman or the first season of HBO’s Barry will enjoy this show, as will any Schitt’s Creek fan who’s ever wondered, “How might Moira Rose stage the nativity story?”

★★★★

The Nativity Variations runs now through December 11 in the Quadracci Powerhouse at the Milwaukee Rep. Tickets start at $15 and can be purchased at milwaukeerep.com.

The theater is located at 108 E. Wells Street in downtown Milwaukee. Indoor parking is available and can be pre-purchased at a discount. The complex is worth the trip to see.

The show is 2 hours including an intermission.

Tuesdays – 7:30 p.m. (6:30 p.m. curtain and audio-described performance, Tues., Nov. 22)
ASL performance, Tuesday, December 8
Wednesday, November 23 (bus matinee) / Wednesday, December 7 – 1:30 p.m.
Wednesdays – 7:30 p.m.
Thursdays* – 7:30 p.m. (*no show on Thanksgiving)
Fridays – 8 p.m.
Saturdays – 3 p.m. and 8 p.m.
Sundays – 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

call414-224-1761