Pinot & Augustine

Mark Jaster (Pinot) and Sabrina Mandell (Augustine) of Happenstance Theatre have brought a very traditional form to sparkling life. Pinot is the classic white face clown, with elegant garb and cone shaped hat; he is clearly in charge. Augustine is his slightly rebellious, somewhat inept, yet enthusiastic helper. It is Pinot's show, but he needs Augustine to translate his French titles and announcements. She wants very badly to take the spotlight.

This is an age-old structure. The show is full of circus entrees and lazzi that (hopefully) you all know:  "Dead or Alive," "Musical Interruption, " mime impressions, etc.

YET, the strength of the characters makes it all new and funny. Their relationship is clear, their needs and desires are transparent without being false. We love Augustine's bumbling efforts to help and her mischievous attempts to sabotage her imperious boss.  Pinot's need for perfection makes him vulnerable despite his strict and demanding attitudes.

It is wonderful to watch a show that is clearly well written and rehearsed. The timing of much of the physical business is precise, but there is still room for them to play with the audience's reactions.

Both of these performers are physically eloquent, there is little wasted or extraneous movement. Mark's mime is elegant and flawless without feeling formal. He became a lion at one point; as he faced the audience, he brought his leg up behind and waved it as his tail--a deliciously satisfying addition to the big cat impression. And the turtle! The turtle was so funny and so true!!

At this point in the development of the show, I would love to see them let themselves loose inside the very tight structure they have created. Allow Augustine to make more mistakes and compound them in her efforts to fix them. A moment where everything completely breaks down for Pinot so he can be steam-from-the-ears furious or ashamed, and one where Augustine could have a sublime moment of perfection, would make us love them even more and give a chance for chaos to upset this perfect gem. It would give us a clear glimpse of the humanity of Pinot & Augustine.

This is a brilliant choice of the festival producers, as Mark and Sabrina's have built a charming and funny show using our clown traditions. This is a history lesson, AND a joy to watch.