The Sphinx Winx is nothing short of quality entertainment. It was not created to be a modern retelling of the story of Antony and Cleopatra. It is instead a caricature of an Egyptian romance.

Ridiculousness and absurdity resonate throughout the entire performance. There are only six actors onstage yet in the span of ninety minutes fifteen character are seen. The energy that it must take to accomplish this daunting performance task must be tremendous. The level of respect and commitment to this project was indeed identifiable in the faces of the entire cast. Grown men and women were working with material that was at times corny and childish, but not once did they seem unhappy doing it. It was refreshing to watch. Tara Jeanne Vallee‘s choreography was youthful and  exciting, and the cast were strong dancers. The romantic plot seemed to be a bit subdued by the ridiculousness – in a good way— of some characters, namely the Soothsayer (Ryan Williams). His wild, comedic antics were priceless and the fluidity of his speech was perfection.

The stage band was only keyboards and drums, but this was not detrimental to the show whatsoever. The simplicity of the orchestration merely added to the integrity of The Sphinx Winx. Also, it is important to note that although this musical may not have been created to be anything more than a chance for a good laugh and a fun time, it represents a vital form of the old musical theatre style.

The Sphinx Winx is a satire, which is nothing new in human culture.  A hundred years ago the art of satirizing was implemented into burlesque acts. It became the way audiences received their information about world matters — with a few laughs in the process.

The charm of this older musical theatre comedy never ceases to generate appeal with all ages. It retains its essence and conserves it through the careful and thoughtful reconditioning of vaudeville acts.

The Sphinx Winx is now playing thru June 19 at Theatre Row in the Beckett Theatre.  High 5 has $5 tickets here.