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The Deep Throat Sex Scandal

By David Bertolino; Directed by Jerry Douglas


Malcom Madera as Harry Reems and Lori Gardner as Linda Lovelace in The Deep Throat Sex Scandal.

BOTTOM LINE: Low-brow production value for a topic that deserves more. An entertaining show regardless.

Political freedom is at the heart of The Deep Throat Sex Scandal - that, and blow jobs. I had never actually considered the societal implications of one of the highest grossing porn movies of all time, but when faced with censure it argued freedom of speech and set a precedent. It actually paved the way for future movies to be able to discuss and show things that were previously taboo. Who knew?

That's where the political history ends, however, as Deep Throat is really more about the story behind the movie's creation. Real life stars Harry Reems and Linda Lovelace are the central characters in this show, played by Malcolm Madera and Lori Gardner, respectively. Their journey from average folk to mega-porn stars is the topic at hand.

Harry narrates the story, frequently breaking the fourth wall and easing the audience into the action occurring on stage. This adds a welcomed comfort and inclusiveness to what will soon be a soft-core pornographic experience of its own. Although there isn't any actual "action" and the nudity is scarce, there are still moments of full-frontal exposure from both genders and the suggestion of much more than that.

Deep Throat handles its X-rated subject matter with equal parts showmanship and respect. It doesn't feel gratuitous, and its overall hippie vibe (it takes place in the early 1970s, after all) adds to the all around laid-back approach to sex. Plus, total commitment from its troupe of comic actors makes the normally risque topic actually incredibly inoffensive.

That doesn't mean this show ranks among artistic genius. Its humor is cheesy (bushy mustaches included) and self-indulgent. Although it's totally not for kids (under 18 not even admitted), the sensibility is weirdly evocative of family movies - jokes for adults disguised by physical comedy for all ages. And with an added self-deprecation, Deep Throat is so silly it barely takes itself seriously.

That notwishtanding, the actors are all deft comedians and they can hold their own given the material. There are some quality one-liners like "drop your pants and call me Mona." Most of the cast members (everyone but Madera and Gardner) play multiple roles, and through this they are able to show off their comedic versatility. Frank Blocker and Rita Rehn, in particular, have several hilarious moments.

Despite my better judgment, I enjoyed myself at The Deep Throat Sex Scandal. The script and production itself offer little in terms of inspiration (except for the scene where the actual porn is played behind the actors filming it on stage). But the topic itself is worthwhile from an historical standpoint and the news clips that are shown evoke the film's political implications.



(The Deep Throat Sex Scandal plays at the Theatres at 45 Bleecker, 45 Bleecker Street just east of Lafayette, through December 19, 2010. Performances are Tuesdays through Fridays at 8pm, Saturdays at 7:30pm and 11pm and Sundays at 4pm and 7:30pm. Tickets are $25-$80. Student rush tickets are $20 and are available at the box office on the day of performance. Purchase tickets at telecharge.com or by calling 212.239.6200. For more show info, visit deepthroattheplay.com.)