Story and photos by Richard W. Dionne, Jr.
Mt. Hope alumni Alex Brassard and Sara Slusarski put on their own creative and scintillating version of, “Chicago: A Two-Woman Extravaganza,” on the 2 Woman Productions stage behind Ms. Brassard’s home at 175 Wood St. on Thursday and Friday nights. Chicago is the third production since they began their endeavor during Covid last August.
Ms. Brassard portrayed Roxie Hart, who murders her lover, and becomes absorbed in becoming a celebrity. Ms. Slusarski portrays a number of rolls, nightclub singer, Velma Kelly, a female version of defense attorney Bill Flynn and others.
“For this show, we knew we wanted to challenge ourselves by doing more with visuals, lighting, costuming, dialogue, and dancing,” said Ms. Slusarski. “Chicago is already about two women, so it was a great fit for us, and we didn’t have to change much of the storyline.” The show featured racy costumes and videos that were projected onto a screen behind the stage. On Friday the tiny outdoor theater was at full capacity, and Brassard’s and Slusarski’s booming voices could be heard down Cottage Street.
“The show went well,” Ms. Slusarski said. “Before bringing it to Bristol, we did four great shows at the Providence Fringe Festival.”
The actresses plan to put on their own version of “Into the Woods” this fall. “Until then, we will stay busy with other smaller projects. We hope to start writing original material in the future,” Ms. Slusarski said.