Get ready to be charmed by the warm and witty cabaret-style duo of Oren Levine and Barbara Papendorp in their American-standard-style set, Are You Out of Your Mind?
Mainly featuring the original lyrics of Levine, a jazz pianist, the songs speak to relationships between men and women in the bright, toe-tapping phrases of Cole Porter, Kander and Ebb, or even at the brightest moments, Stephen Sondheim. While I wished that there was a more cohesive narrative arc to the set (an early song relating to COVID and being able to see one another in person felt awkwardly dated), there is a snappy range of solos, duets, and patter. Papendorp’s bubbly renditions hit all the right notes, especially on the comic moments.
High points of the revue were the duets, notably “How Do You Have a Conversation?,” which showcased the smooth and engaging chemistry between the two, who have performed together across the DMV for over 15 years. Levine’s solo performance of “The Last Banana,” confessing to just that fact, was punchy, fun, and showcased this veteran cabaret performer’s charm, topped off by a porkpie hat and gravelly voice. “No Ducks,” for Papendorp, provided a poignant solo moment to highlight her dramatic range as she sang about aging and carrying on.
If you’re looking for a show with edge, angst, or profound insight into the human condition, this is not it. Are You Out of Your Mind? is more of a funny retort, not a question for our anxious times.
If you are looking for a delightful, upbeat revue, this is it. At just under an hour, it’s an easy-listening aperitif for any evening.
Are You Out of Your Mind?
A cabaret by Oren Levine and Barbara Papendorp
Running Time: 60 minutes
Dates and Times:
- Thursday, July 17, 6:00p
- Friday, July 18, 7:45p
- Saturday, July 19, 7:15p
- Sunday, July 20, 1:00p
- Friday, July 25, 10:00p
Venue: Phoenix – UDC Lecture Hall (44A03)
Tickets: $15
More Info and Tickets: Are You Out of Your Mind?
Genre: Cabaret, Circus
Written and performed by Oren Levine and Barbara Papendorp
The complete 2025 District Fringe Festival schedule is online here.
The 2025 District Fringe Festival program is online here.
