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My Two Cents

Seeing Stars

By Joseph Cillo

Steve Budd at The Marsh Berkeley

I had the delight of attending Steve Budd’s latest solo performance, “Seeing Stars,” at The Marsh Berkeley, and it was an exceptional experience that I wholeheartedly recommend. Running from June 1 to July 13, 2024, this 60-minute show airs every Saturday at 5 pm and engages the audience from start to finish.

Heartfelt and Hilarious

From the moment Steve Budd stepped onto the stage, I was drawn into the world of his 31-year-old self, who finds himself moving back in with his parents. The story takes an unexpected turn as Steve’s gruff and distant father undergoes a surprising transformation, leading to a rollercoaster of emotions and unexpected twists. The performance starts slowly but comes alive with this telling. Budd’s impeccable storytelling and comedic timing made the exploration of such serious themes both heartfelt and hilarious.

Masterful Performance

Budd’s performance was nothing short of masterful. His ability to switch between characters seamlessly and his authentic portrayal of complex emotions kept me engaged and deeply invested in the story. It’s clear that his background as an award-winning solo performer shines through in “Seeing Stars,” a true testament to his talent and dedication to the craft.

Directed by Mark Kenward

The direction by Mark Kenward ensured a smooth and captivating narrative flow. Kenward’s experience and insight into solo performances were evident in the way he guided Budd, allowing his natural charisma and storytelling prowess to take center stage. I also appreciated the work of stage manager Aaron Aguilar, who ensured every aspect of the performance ran flawlessly.

About Steve Budd

For those unfamiliar with Steve Budd, he is an actor, writer, and storyteller based in Oakland, California. With a rich training background from The Marsh and The Groundlings in L.A., Budd brings a wealth of experience to the stage. His previous solo show, “What They Said About Love,” was a huge success, running for three months at The Marsh in 2018 and earning a spot as one of Theatre Bay Area’s Top 5 Solo Shows.

Engage with The Marsh

If you’re looking to engage more with The Marsh Berkeley and Steve Budd’s work, follow them on social media:

For more information and tickets, visit The Marsh’s website.

Conclusion

“Seeing Stars” is a must-see show that combines humor, heart, and a deep exploration of familial relationships. Steve Budd’s performance is a masterclass in solo storytelling, making this a standout production at The Marsh Berkeley. Don’t miss your chance to experience this remarkable ride through the highs and lows of family life.