Set New York and the year is 1892. What started as a fun prank by two young sisters – Maggie, Leah and Kate Fox, sparked the spiritualism craze that engulfed USA and Europe. The girls claimed that there was a spirit communicating with them. People believed them. Within a short period the Fox sisters became celebrities, holding public séances. Michael Conley, in a one man show, gives this historical background, a touch of comic brilliance by loading facts with humour that scales the show to new hights – constant laughter dominate the 75 minuets show.
Michael Conley is hilarious. Through his voice and facial expressions he brilliantly generates the desired comic effects. He does not use slapstick, a common pitfall that often tarps comedians, specially in one-man shows, where slapstick creeps into narratives to fill in gaps. Michael tells Kate’s story from her perspective. As Kate reflects on her life, the audience is able to laugh at the narcissistic exaggerated persona as well as her delivery – ranging from carelessness to defensiveness about the situations she finds herself in.
The story itself is smart, witty and funny, utilising Michael Conley’s obvious talent and comedic
timing. It’s so packed with humour that its hard to loose focus even for a moment. The audience
couldn’t stop laughing and neither could I throughout the show. The hilarious monologue is periodically interjected with songs that are funny and thought provoking as well as moving the narrative forward. In one of the memorable songs, Kate introduces the audience to her friend who cured her loneliness ‘Jim
Beam’. The first song ‘Popping my toes’ was stuck in my head for days while the final number
really questions what it means to believe in anything, and challenges the veracity of our truths.
The show has basic lighting, two musicians one – one on the piano one on the drums, a fantastic
book and Michael. That’s all that’s needed to create a fantastic show.