#31 – Why ‘Irma Vep’ Is A Wild, Campy Celebration At Everyman Theatre | Joseph W. Ritsch The Truth In This Art: Stories That Matter podcast

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#31 – Why ‘Irma Vep’ Is a Wild, Campy Celebration at Everyman Theatre | Joseph W. Ritsch

The Truth In This Art: Stories That Matter

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Get ready for a behind-the-scenes look at The Mystery of Irma Vep – A Penny Dreadful at Everyman Theatre, where director, choreographer, and arts educator Joseph Ritsch brings gothic farce, drag, and campy spectacle together in a production bursting with sharp humor and political edge.

In this episode, Joseph joins Rob Lee to unpack why Charles Ludlam’s cult classic still hits hard today — blending outrageous comedy with queer history, lightning-fast costume changes, and a message that feels more urgent than ever.

Gothic camp unleashed: why Irma Vep still dazzles with drag, horror, and farce
Two actors, eight roles, 30+ costume changes: the technical choreography behind the comedy
Queer theater as protest: honoring Charles Ludlam’s legacy and reclaiming space onstage
Building community: Joseph’s 15-year journey at Everyman Theatre and why it feels like home
Mentoring young artists: how Everyman University’s Observership Program connects students to the real work of professional theater

Check out the THE MYSTERY OF IRMA VEP: A PENNY DREADFUL: Director Interview

Host: Rob Lee
Music: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis.
Production:

Produced by Rob Lee & Daniel Alexis
Edited by Daniel Alexis
Show Notes courtesy of Rob Lee and Transistor

Photos:

Rob Lee photos by Vicente Martin for The Truth In This Art and Contrarian Aquarian Media.
Guest photos courtesy of the guest, unless otherwise noted.

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