The Museum of Dysfunction

Two of Houston’s most off-kilter theater companies join forces to reveal the truth about family get-togethers

Comments (0) By Lee Williams Thursday, Dec 11 2008

Now that the holiday season is upon us, so is the weight of family and all the dreaded neuroses that travel along with Mom, Dad and that really creepy brother-in-law. But the team of Mildred’s Umbrella Theatre Company and The Fan Factory Theatre are here to remind you that you’re not alone. The Museum of Dysfunctionoffers a whole album of freaky families to make you feel pretty good about your own.

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According to Jennifer Decker, the artistic director of Mildred’s Umbrella, Avant Garden will be transformed into a multi-stage set. “In each area there will be a performance of some sort that will be related to dysfunctional families. That includes a short film by [Mildred’s Umbrella] company members Ryan Kelly and John Harvey, monologues and scenes by Mildred’s Umbrella actors and a puppet show by [guest artist] Camella Clements of Bobbindoctrin.” (Fan Factory company members are performing behind the scenes in Museum of Dysfunction, so you won’t see any of them onstage.)

The whole tour lasts about an hour. When you’re done, you ought to feel a little bit better about your own motley crew. If you still need a little more cheering up, hang out after the show at a cast party on Friday. Together We Are Instruments will provide the music. The Museum of Dysfunction tours start at 8 and 8:15 p.m. Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Avant Garden, 411 Westheimer. For information, call 832-418-0585 or visit www.mildredsumbrella.org. $5 to $10 suggested donation.
Dec. 11-13, 8 p.m., 2008