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Bacon B.
Phoenix, AZ
Five-star rating
06.27.09

BaconBNothing beats the intimacy of Nearly Naked Theatre, nor its ability to cast superb actors in gritty roles from moving plays. And [a recent] performance of “Blood Brothers” was no exception.

It’s been over a year since we first attended a production at n2t and each time adds a layer of complexity and absorption, drawing us further in to the dynamics of its theatre. Understand that this is a small space with seating for, perhaps, a hundred people. Every time we’ve been here, it’s been near- or at-capacity. After ten years of honing its craft, that isn’t surprising. n2t has wisely turned away from receiving federal grants to produce its stunning work and saved itself from the bureaucratic red tape and censorship that permeates such “donations.” Instead, n2t accepts donations from individuals and businesses that support the efforts to produce raw, uncensored works that are stripped down to their cored fundamentals. Thus, we get “naked” theatre…a venue so vital to the now-identifiable Downtown. I’d like to think n2t has helped to mold the direction of the region.

Some tips: If you’re going with a group, get there early. The doors open half an hour before show times and you’ll need to be quick to hold the necessary seats. On the seats, they’re not like what you get at AMC/Harkins. These seats are tough on your backside, but they are working on getting cushions for all the seats so that is temporary. Wine is now being served; bring cash. Almost every production we’ve seen has had smoking in it. As a former smoker this is a bit irritating but (as you can see from my rating) is forgivable. Finally, see as many performances as you can! Start early in the season and see each production. If you love theatre, love feeling like part of the play, love being close the the art and love supporting something phenomenal, n2t is the perfect venue for you.

Nearly Naked Theatre is located at 100 E. McDowell Rd. (602) 254.2151

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