The Lousiest Werewolves: Mania in the Moonlight

Informative and entertaining!

I learned a lot about Bipolar Disorder in this show. I thought tying it in with being a werewolf was an interesting take. It was very eye opening to see what people with this disorder have to deal with.

Bait, howl and switch

I mean, technically the title isn't misleading. They ARE awful werewolves. I just had missed that all shows at the Phoenix were mental health-related, nor did I realize that this show would be 53 minutes of sharing about the performer's experiences with Bipolar disorder. But I am glad I went and got to hear some real truth from two friends (and their courageous third performer) about thier lives and what the people they love navigate with them.

Courage Was Never So Funny

There are two reasons I am glad I saw this production. The first was that I not only learned a lot, but I was inspired to show up with a lot more empathy toward people who are navigating being bipolar AND perhaps start with kindness and empathy toward people who just might be (thanks for the signs and symptoms section). The second reason is it was funny. Really funny. Rob, Mike and Charlie are just good improv talents - they instincts and "asides" are great. I can't wait to see them in the future at their non-Fringe improv shows. But it's one thing to be funny and another to be funny and on-point in your story line. And to throw in rhyming couplets now and then on the way? Good stuff. I give it 5 Kitties, or should I say 5 Wolves. Ahwoooo!

Hopeful but missed the mark

I stumbled into this show somewhat by accident, but I was intrigued to see where it would go. The performers did a good job explaining what bipolar disorder is and how it may appear to others. I did feel there was a missed opportunity to discuss how easily it can be misdiagnosed, particularly given how many of its symptoms overlap with other conditions—something that could have added even more educational value. Given the significant suicide risk associated with bipolar disorder, some of the jokes didn’t quite land for me. Similarly, a joke involving medication could potentially be interpreted differently than intended by audience members who are less familiar with psychiatric treatment. That said, I was really encouraged by the emphasis on therapy, medication management, and trusting your partner—particularly in a piece centered on men and mental health. With a bit of tightening and refinement, I think this could become a really effective piece that manages to be both lighthearted and genuinely educational.

Fun to watch show about Bipolar

As someone with the diagnosis, it was delightful to watch the lighthearted side of bipolar. I loved the occult (werewolves) aspect of it, but that could have been delved in even deeper. However, the accuracy of what bipolar looks like to others and how it is explained, and how it feels like to the ones who have it themselves is depicted well. One hour isn't enough to justify the nuances of bipolar, but I loved the animated and creative take on it. What made me sad is thinking of people with this diagnosis who don't have insurance or a home. It made me think about that, and I wish that would be addressed someday. Part 2 coming soon? Great job to the 3 guys!!! So talented.

Manic Depression is Touching my Soul

A show about bipolar disorder. Informative, but needed a tighter script, some revisions, and better direction. Had noticeable lapses. Actors shouted too much. Worth a look, but you will need to see it this weekend.

A Tour de Fur-ce!

The Lousiest Werewolves:Mania in the Moonlight is a classic example of how to make a topic that is, at best difficult to talk about, at worst taboo, and makes it fun, engaging, and approachable. The show does take some big swings with more off-color humor, which for some folks might not land as well. The cast play off each other well, and keep a nice pace throughout the show, even when the action onstage reaches it's "lows". Overall, a fantastic show that I couldn't recommend enough.

They just may be the lunatics you're looking for

This is a super accessible, rough and tumble show about bipolar disorder that avoids getting too maudlin or self-indulgent, even when the actors are sharing some tough moments from their personal lives and struggles. As much as I hate talk-backs, this show almost needs it because it demands a little extra processing and commiserating. Kudos to these three very engaging actors and their terrific chemistry. Also the Phoenix for hosting shows about mental health!

Insightful

I loved to see all 3 actors putting themselves on the line and talking about the subject matter. Didn’t think the tie-in between werewolves and bipolar disorder quite meshed but it did add humor to a serious topic. It DID give me insight into what life is like for folks dealing with the disorder. On that level a big success!

Amazing

Wow! Really bold and I learned a lot and I was highly entertained and laughed a lot.

Rob Ward remains a maniac

Maybe a bit more literally this time :) And joined by fellow maniacs Mike Mayket and Charles Osugo. Part storytelling, part educational, part loose and intimate hangout, large part physical comedy...the perfect combo for a show about the complex issue of bipolar disorder. An hour of theater you couldn't possibly experience anywhere else. Well done.

Funny and Brave!

I laughed. cried and learned a lot about mental illness in this very personal piece. I liked that they provided a lot of resources and information. All 3 actors were excellent and sincere. Only playing this weekend, so put this on your schedule early.