The Muscles in Our Toes, A Dark Comedy that Dazzles

Stephen Belber's new play, The Muscles in Our Toes, is an affecting dark comedy that stirs the muscle between the ears.  The Labyrinth Theater, tucked away on Bank Street, is a jewel of playhouse, especially for those who like to be up close & personal with its actors.  The play is about a 25 year h.s. reunion that drudges up life's disappointments, bitterness & past animosities.  A look back at the past staged in real time on the evening of the big reunion.  The one act, one set is the music room where 5 former  friends meet, greet & deplete us with their exhaustive, overblown dramas.  The play churns steadily from affectionate bonding & reminiscing to a diatribe of life's harsh realities.  Together they hatch an outrageous plan to bomb a building in a futile attempt at rescuing their classmate.  The rallying battle cry to action takes more convincing from the alpha male Dante over Les, Phil (Matthew Maher) and his old rival Reg.  Carrie (Jeanine Serrales) the only female in the mix has a past history with Dante & Reg and hopes for a future with - whomever.  Carrie's is played with ferocious energy that is hilarious & a melancholy that is moving.  Phil, played by Matthew Maher, as the only openly gay male delivers comedic wit & biting cynicism.   As friction turns up the heat, the outlandish plot spirals out of control.  You'll leave the theatre scratching your head.  But this ebullient dark comedy will keep you on your toes.