The name Groucho Marx may instantly resonate with some, and be a mystery to others. It’s been over 40 years since his passing in 1977, yet his influence on comedy, the variety show concept, and vaudeville remain. For nearly the same amount of time, actor Frank Ferrente has brought one of his heroes to life with his one-man show An Evening with Groucho, playing at Stage West until November 12^th.

Ferrente is a charismatic and engaging performer, from the start of the show when he appears as himself to introduce the show, his early love of Marx, and prepare the audience for what they are about to experience. With a moustache and bushy eyebrows painted on stage, he transforms into Marx in front of the audiences’ eyes.

What unfolds is 90 minutes of a "greatest hits." Accompanied by pianist Mark Rabe, who also plays the straight man to the whirlwind on stage, songs like Hooray for Captain Spaulding are performed. Marx was legendary as an improviser, and Ferrente takes those skills to the audience, bantering with audience members and even bringing someone on stage. Groucho’s mannerisms are captured accurately.

The show has won awards from Broadway to London, and he has performed it in over 500 cities. It’s a pretty incredible run to do a tribute show to someone whose heyday was in the 1930’s. Even Marx’s best-known show You Bet Your Life ended in 1961. It shows that comedy can be timeless. You don’t have to be a fan of Marx to enjoy the show.

As always Stage West delivers one of the best buffets in the city. Highlights include apple stuffed pork loin, both New Zealand and PEI Mussels, Chicken Cordon Bleu and the always addictive Florentine cookies.

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Contributor Jason Clevett |

Locale Calgary |

Topic Stagewest | Theatre |