Crackling smart writing packed tightly into a raunchy theatrical jockstrap soaked in cocktails, deception, gluttony, perversion, and murder, Doug DeVita’s GODDESS OF THE HUNT features sharp, witty dialogue and wickedly ingenious plot twists that take what first seems to be a breezy comedy of manners to darker and darker places. The characters are expertly drawn, and DeVita also provides entertainingly detailed local New York City color (as well as Paris, Provincetown, and Key West), and some barbed and poignant commentary on growing older in the gay community.

This play is a great vehicle for actors – especially those who have a sense of play and humor and enough gravitas to ballast the brash comedic twists and turns of the script; Lab Theater Project’s cast, under the astute direction of Owen Robertson (Lab’s Artistic Director), are more than up to the task. Indeed, the titular Goddess, Diana Black-White, is a great role for a woman. A complicated dual protagonist/antagonist, she is purposeful, playful, and poisonous, especially as played by the deliciously demented Samantha Marti-Parisi.

Outrageous, surreal, and ridiculous but with a tender heart beating at its center, Goddess Of The Hunt is a sweet and salty treat. Order yourself a most fabulous cocktail, check it for arsenic, then dive right in.

Also featuring Larry Corwin, Zach “Hippie” Griswold, David Warner, and Charles Byrd.
Performances Thursdays through Saturdays at 8:00, & Sundays at 3:00, now through October 5.
Lab Theatre Project, 812 E. Henderson Avenue in Ybor City. Tickets & Info: LabTheaterProject.org