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The musical Lesbian Love Octagon is set in the 1990s—“a righteous time in lesbian history,” reads the program. But the average lezzie probably couldn’t tell whether this was then or now, considering the dependable dyke drama that, to this day, still continually rears its faux-hawked head in our community.
The Octagon follows the story of Sue (Caitlin Lee Reid), who’s just broken up with Darla (Kristian Espiritu). As the latter is moving in with new lez-beau Jerry (Jax Jackson), Sue is getting made-over by her friends—each representing her own lesbian stereotype—into a butch stud bound for sexual liberation. Meanwhile, her friends are each nursing their own tribulations stemming from the usual sources: the breakdown of polyamory; friendly ex-girlfriends and jealous new girlfriends; the inability to break up and stay broken up…the list goes on.
Director Kimberlea Kressal (book and lyrics writer), in collaboration with Music Director Will Larche (music and lyrics writer), have accurately captured the experience of the average urban American lesbian, in the oft-comedic context of how women go about dating women. Staged by Horse Trade Theater Group, this production (with local celesbian guest stars nightly) runs through New York City Pride weekend, our yearly reminder of how stereotypical our people can be.
Thankfully, Kressal and Larche wove their “Octagon” with plenty of humor, both campy and stinging—as the truth tends to be. The performances themselves lend to that appeal, with fun choreography and Broadway-caliber voices harmonizing so perfectly it’s almost disorienting in the modest off-off-Broadway Kraine Theater.
Like a great date, the musical overall is entertaining, sexy, and eager, even if most songs go on too long. But overall, “Lesbian Love Octagon” uses its droll satire to camouflage the universal dyke-drama message: Maybe we’re all taking ourselves a little too seriously. Which is pretty funny in itself.
“Lesbian Love Octagon” (www.lesbianthemusical.com) is now running at The Kraine Theater, 85 East 4th Street (between 2nd Avenue and Bowery). Remaining performances: June 21, 22, 26, 27, 28, 29. Tickets $18, or $15 students/seniors.
