Lorenzo Pisonis one-man show relates how he was raised “in the business,” the Pickle Family Circus, where both his parents performed. A professional clown, he recounts how he signed a “contract” at age six to became his fathers onstage partner. Four years later, his parents divorced, and he toured without them. Pisoni delivers these memories without rancor and often with a tenderness that makes you believe that his oddball upbringing, with all its pitfalls, realized the old fantasy of running away to join the circus. What really fascinates is Pisonis confidence as an actor (hes done straight theater, too), which seems to grow as the show gathers momentum. Though he also showcases his circus skills, including a nifty balloon act, the confessional and autobiographical moments are stronger. In general, he maintains a chummy, affable distance from the bittersweet chaos of his life. He delivers his anecdotes with the practiced bonhomie of someone at a cocktail party. Which is not to say that Humor Abuse isnt entertaining or fun. Its just that its charms wont be what you expect. KEVIN PHINNEY
Wednesdays-Sundays. Starts: Sept. 30. Continues through Oct. 23, 2011
