

(original comedy) competitor blessed with the gift of character pops. It is because of his conspicuous focus, athleticism, and talent that The Absolute Brightness of Leonard Pelkey reaps such extraordinary rewards.Īs those of us who trolled the classrooms of high school forensics (speech and debate) tournaments can attest, there is nothing more spirit crushing than being placed in a round with a fellow O.C. Perhaps the best example of this is the multiple character solo play, as evident from the performance marathon currently being run by James Lecesne at Dixon Place. In other words, they work their asses off and it shows. For their work to soar these performers use every ounce of energy and talent at their disposal and make no bones about it. The third group is populated by gymnasts, tap dancers, and Idina Menzel. Think of a pop star performing with a prerecorded vocal track while swinging over the Super Bowl. The second group, and I would argue less captivating, are glittery and often expensive to consume, but in fact require a relatively low amount effort.

First we have the type that demand obvious skill and talent, but fascinate because of the performer's ability to deliver them with a sense of ease (figure skating, ballet, and the vocal stylings of Audra McDonald immediately come to mind).

Let's suppose that all live performance can be broken down into three groups. Photo by Peter Yesley.īOTTOM LINE: James Lecesne is working hard for the money in this solo show and the fruits of his labor are sweet. James Lecesne in The Absolute Brightness of Leonard Pelkey.

Written & Performed By James Lecesne Directed by Tony Speciale The fellow LGBTQ activists smile after Lecesne's performance of The Absolute Brightness of Leonard Pelkey.įor tickets to The Absolute Brightness of Leonard Pelkey, click here.The Absolute Brightness of Leonard Pelkey Take a look at Lecesne and Windsor as they celebrate the special evening after the show. The award will be presented monthly to "a unique individual who is a shining beacon in their community, and an inspiration to live as your truest self." A hero of the LGBTQ cause, Windsor is best known for promulgating the landmark United States v. James Lecesne, playwright and star of The Absolute Brightness of Leonard Pelkey and cofounder of the LGBTQ organization the Trevor Project, presented civil rights activist Edie Windsor with the first-ever Absolute Brightness Award last night at the Westside Theatre where Lecesne's solo show is now in performances. James Lecesne gives Edie Windsor a kiss as he presents her with the first Absolute Brightness Award.
