The Flying Karamazov Brothers have been in existence since 1973, and audiences at their newest Off-Broadway act, “4Play,” can see why.
The Flying Karamazov Brothers perform a myriad of tricks under the assumed names of Dmitri, Pavel, Alexei and Zossima Karamazov. The eclectic mix of acts includes juggling, comedy and live music performed by the “brothers,” none of whom are blood relatives. The two most notable acts are “The Gamble” and “Terror Trick.”
In “The Gamble,” audience members are allowed to bring any object fitting certain guidelines to the stage (it must weigh more than an ounce but less than 10 pounds and be no bigger than a breadbox). From those objects, three are chosen by audience applause, and if Zossima successfully juggles the items for ten throws, he wins a standing ovation. If he fails three times, he gets a pie in the face.
The “Terror Trick,” on the other hand, features nine different (and often dangerous) items presented by the troupe. In the finale they juggle all of them, resulting in an unexpected and hilarious end to the performance.
The most impressive part of the show is how talented all of the men are. They can all juggle extremely well, but they also tell jokes and play musical instruments (sometimes several different ones). The matinee attended for this review was filled with mostly children and families, and audience members of all ages seemed to enjoy the performance. Presumably, some of the language was toned down for the younger matinee audience, while evening performances are probably somewhat more risqué.
One note of warning: if you are not fond of being sprayed with champagne, water and other liquids, you should pick seats at least a few rows back from the stage. The Brothers are spontaneous and are not that worried about getting the audience a little wet.
Regular ticket prices are $65, but TicketNews readers can save 40% off ticket face values when they use Flying Karamazov Brothers discount code TKTN39.
The regular production schedule includes performances at 8 p.m. on Fridays; 1 p.m., 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Saturdays; and 1 p.m., 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Sundays. “Flying Karamazov Brothers” is currently playing at Minetta Lane Theatre, located at 18 Minetta Lane in New York, NY. The show runs about 90 minutes, with no intermission.
The Flying Karamazov Brothers’ performance was reviewed in participation with TicketNews’ Discount Theatre Program, which provides unique discount codes for Broadway, Off-Broadway, and other theatrical productions. For more information on the program or enrolling a production, visit our Discount Theatre Program page or e-mail Liz Hoffman.