L.A. Review: Laughing throughout MIKE BIRBIGLIA’S The NEW ONE
Jill Weinlein, Chief Los Angeles Critic
Comedian, writer and performer Mike Birbiglia bares his soul about his relationship with his couch, wife and daughter as he takes the stage at the Ahmanson Theatre. Direct from Broadway, Birbiglia with additional writing by Jennifer Hope Stein, and directed by Seth Barrish (“Sleepwalk with Me”) begins by declaring his fondness of a couch he discovers that was left on a street years ago. The story evolves on how this piece of furniture offers comfort for sitting, sleeping, watching television, eating meals and finally cradling “The NEW ONE” a baby.
Looking a little bit like Matt Damon and Bill O’Reilly, Birbiglia is a likable, non-threatening fellow that many in the audience can relate to for his reluctance and revelations of growing up and becoming a parent.
His honesty has the audience roaring in their seats, as this modern-day Misanthrope lists 7 specific reasons why he lacks the qualities to become a father. He starts with his genetic makeup, his job, and finishes with how men are not great. Like Moliere, a slightly bitter critic of society, Birbiglia states “We were given the earth and we failed.” He truly believes “Men are on thin ice, Women are ok. Decent is normal, and great men are a fantasy.” Birbiglia can say this and not offend anyone, if anything, we all nod our heads in agreement.
The show offers insight for wives and mothers to see how their husbands feel shockingly inadequate after the birth of a child. “Mom is God to the baby” he says as he shares how jealous he was of the attention his daughter Oona received from his wife Jen. He describes his wife’s soft skin as a “thread count of 600,” and proudly reads aloud her poetry from her published 2018 “Little Astronaut.” Jen penned their daughter’s first smile, first step and first word, many times associating them with her husband’s firsts too.
Beowulf Borrit’s simple brick wall set, later becomes a chaotic spill of furry toys and all the necessities one needs to help entertain and induce sleep in a newborn through the toddler years.
Birbiglia is smart, likable and witty in his performance, as he opens up to the audience about his anxiety, growth, and acceptance of his new roles and relationships as a husband and father.
Running Time: Approximately 90 minutes, with no intermission.
This one-man comedy opened October 25 at Center Theatre Group/Ahmanson Theatre and runs through November 24. Recommended for ages 16+ for mature themes and strong language. Mike Birbiglia: The New One” will be launched globally on Netflix on November 26.
Tickets are available online at CenterTheatreGroup.org, by calling Audience Services at (213) 972-4400 or in person at the Center Theatre Group Box Office (at the Ahmanson Theatre at The Music Center in Downtown Los Angeles). Tickets range from $35 – $145 (ticket prices are subject to change). The Ahmanson Theatre is located at The Music Center, 135 N. Grand Avenue in Downtown L.A. 90012.