New York Fringe Festival: Tim Gunn’s Podcast (a reality chamber opera)

For any [Project Runway ]fan, Jeffry Lependorf’s Tim Gunn’s Podcast is a riot of operatic satire.  This single man opera, sung by John Schenkel, who looks just like a portly Tim Gunn, is an hour long, drama filled, fashion crazy extravaganza.  Schenkel’s words and reactions as he performs are extremely dramatic, like a true fashion queen and opera singer.  Noted, it helps to have seen Project Runway, especially the episode they refer to in this production.  Known as the “Miss USA Pageant,” in this segment the contestants have to make a red carpet gown for Tara Conner, Miss USA 2008.  In Tim Gunn’s Podcast, Schenkel focuses on Gunn’s emotional reaction to the challenge. His manner and commentary on the events in the show had half the audience in a fit of giggles and the other half wondering what the heck was going on.  Not unlike a true chamber opera.

Additional show times are Aug. 14 at 6, Aug. 17 at 4:30, Aug. 22 at 5:15, and Aug. 23 at 10 pm.  The Jazz Gallery, 290 Hudson (betw. Spring and Dominick Sts.). $15.