BRIAN DYKSTRA’S HO!

So, what do the Jolly Green Giant and Santa Claus have in common? Think on it for a few, and a hint of an idea will likely come to you, but if you head to The Drilling Company Theatre between now and December 19, all will be revealed about 30 minutes into Brian Dykstra’s HO!, an off-center addition to the droves of holiday, or more specifically, Christmas fare.

HO! is comprised of two holiday-themed tales, presented in Mr. Dykstra’s signature solo style. While the first act introduces a litigious Santa, seeking to brand all colors, words and expressions associated with Christmas, under penalty of lawsuits, intimidation and, worst of all, homes bypassed by St. Nick on the biggest night of the year, the second is an ultimately heartwarming tale of a tree named Sammy, and the homeless New Yorkers who give his life real meaning.

Dykstra’s alternately sarcastic and traditional tales about Christmas give HO! balance. The show, presented on a small stage, feels full by the sheer will of holiday regalia. Foremost is of course the almost non-stop rhythmic presentation of the tales themselves. Mr. Dykstra did not miss a beat the night of the first premiere, when some technical difficulties were worked into the performance with comic skill. With a snarky wink and a nod, he reeled the audience in the moment he appeared on stage, and for the rest of the night.

For those who are less enamored of the season than happy to just get through it, HO! is the type of show you may just enjoy. If you go for the Grinch before Jimmy Stewart, and just cannot get enough of seasonal lore like David Sedaris’ Holidays on Ice, HO! could be just that new item to add to your holiday repertoire. Celebrating the season by looking through a slightly off-kilter lens, it takes a satirical yet adoring approach to the genre.

- Kessa De Santis -

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