Currently playing at the Blue Room Theatre as part of Summer Nights, Shark is a satirical look at the misogynistic and abusive film industry through the lens of an early 2000s low-budget B-movie set. Clea Purkis, as the past-her-prime literal shark, Delaney Burke, as the fresh, budding, and energetic actor, and Lucy Wong, as the sleazy, young, and arrogant director, all play off each other in a high-energy, gorgeously choreographed, and absolutely hilarious fashion.
We are initially introduced to the set through a 60 Minutes-style exposé on the horrific events that took place during Shark (2005), meeting the three as they navigate an industry that uses and abuses them. Think The Substance meets Baywatch—Shark explores these themes from the perspective of a budding young actor being exposed to the harsh realities of this exploitative industry and the impact it has on the women in it. Featuring dance numbers, multiple live-screen and recorded segments, intense character moments, emotionally charged monologues, and expertly crafted humour, the show hits every point with strong, dynamic energy.
This is probably the first time I’ve done this, but I have to shout out the stage manager, Shannen Moulton, who has set up and managed so many different tech elements that the characters constantly interact with—and aside from one small hiccup at the end, it all ran flawlessly. Lucy Wong, as writer, and Mitch Whelan, as director, have done astounding work in navigating a wildly ranging and provocative piece that jumps between so many varied moments, scenes, and character beats.
If I had one critique, it would be that some scenes lingered a little too long, seemingly extended by moments of improv. There were small sections that lacked motivation, but they were often quickly picked back up by the infectious energy the three leads carry throughout.
As a whole, Shark is likely one of the funniest, wildest, most chaotic, and purely fun shows I’ve seen in quite a while—something I would absolutely not miss.
Shark is on at The Blue Room Theatre from Feb 11-15.