The differences between the
sexes have been a topic of discussion and commiseration since the dawn of time.
Defending the Caveman is a long-running one-man show on the subject and it has
finally made its way to Indianapolis. The show holds the record as the longest
running solo play in Broadway history. In addition, it’s made the rounds in
Chicago, Las Vegas, Washington D.C. and more; now Hoosiers have the chance to
see Kevin Burke perform firsthand.
The production opens on what
looks like Fred Flintstone’s living room, complete with caveman drawings on the
walls. What follows is a string of observational comedy that most couples can
relate to. Burke pokes fun at both sexes but never makes it feel like an attack.
The playful teasing is paired with admiration as he highlights the things that sometimes
make men and women struggle to connect.
What could be a stale review of well-known clichés about men and women feels fresh because of Burke’s delivery. He is clearly a veteran performer and has been performing this show since 2003, so he’s no newcomer to the material. He interacts with the crowd with ease, pumping them up and getting them laughing early on in the production. The best moments of the show came whenever Burke had impromptu interactions with the crowd. Any one-man show relies heavily on the audience’s reaction and Burke knows how to draw people in.
I don’t think I’m alone when I say that it can be hard to find a show my husband and I both enjoy. This is one of the first shows I’ve seen in a long time that’s actually geared towards men. Grab your spouse or your boyfriend or girlfriend and make it a date. I’d be surprised if you both don’t understand each other a little better by the end of the night.
Don't Miss the Show
Performances: The show is an open-ended run on the Theatre
on the Square’s mainstage, 627 Massachusetts Avenue, Indianapolis. Shows begin
at 8 pm on Fridays, 5 pm and 8 pm on Saturdays and at 2 pm on Sundays. There is some adult language.
Tickets: Tickets are $30 and may be purchased by
calling the box office at 317-685-TOTS (8687) or online at www.TOTS.org
Photos Courtesy of Defending the Caveman
Comments