Television game show hosts are fodder for punchlines. Whether it’s the perma-tan, the high kilowatt smile, the barrage of dad-humor forced upon the audience and contestants, or a suit that prompts all the fashion sense of a used car salesman, they are rarely taken seriously.
Do they care? Doubtful. Reliably, they appear in our homes on our screens on a set schedule and over time, they become trusted friends even if we don’t really know them. When it all comes down to it, they are instantly recognizable and richly compensated.
Eighties babies will likely remember Marc Summers, the host of the long running game show Double Dare. Now, they get a chance to know the man beyond the screen in his eponymous Off-Broadway show, The Life and Slimes of Marc Summers. Written by Broadway actor Alex Brightman with original music composed by Drew Gasparini, it charts the challenges faced by a young man from Indianapolis, Indiana who would never take “No” for an answer.
Occasionally, Summers solicits the participation of his live audience members who rush the stage and take part in a physical challenge. (Don’t worry…no one is forced to engage if they wish to just watch). Summers discusses his own physical challenges, including a few bouts of cancer and the diagnosis of OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder).
Admittedly, I walked into this with a mild eyeroll. After all, how much substance could be found from a cheesy game show host? Turns out, a whole lot. Summers basks in the spotlight and isn't afraid to reveal his heart. With a successful 50+ marriage to his wife, Alice, and a knack for determination, Summers is the classic definition of a mensch. While this show will mostly appeal to long-time fans, those who are unfamiliar will still find his story wildly entertaining, touching, and inspirational.
The Life and Slimes of Marc Summers is now playing through June 2nd at New World Stages 340 West 50th Street between 8th and 9th. For tickets and information, click here : lifeandslimes.com
No comments yet