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The Head

 ((Mojo Ensemble, Hollywood; 45 seats; $ 12 top))

By DIEDRE JOHNSON

The Mojo Ensemble presents a one-act play by Wm. S. Leavengood; director, Larry Cox; producers, Samantha Daniels, Diana Lucus.
 
Perry ... Jack Goodman
Lester ... Tyre Patterson
Delya ... Tracy Pulliam
Harley ... Greer Coursey
Pookey ... Michael Simon
Reza ... Nester Ruiz
 

Despite an obviously low budget, the Mojo Ensemble carries off this horror/action/comedy about two scientists, one of whom accidentally steps into an acid bath and ruins all of his body parts except his head. Playwright Wm. S. Leavengood's play is a skewed tribute to '50s-style sci-fi movies and a crafty commentary on greed, lust and acceptance.

Dr. Perry Hess' (Jack Goodman) head continues to live through experimental assistance from his colleague, partner and lover, Lester. Lester (Tyre Patterson) creates a water device and hooks it to life-giving electrodes that allow the brilliant scientist to turn his head, listen to music and sonnets and recite his own verse.

Perry's predicament does not appear to bother him, as he is filled with self-loathing. And since the idea of keeping only the head of an individual alive is a scientific breakthrough, the two are quite pleased with themselves.

This contentment cracks when Lester's wife, Delya (Tracy Pulliam), drops by, and it is irrevocably broken when robbers invade the laboratory and decide to hold the head for ransom.

Under Larry Cox's direction, the ensemble displays a great deal of finesse at the physical comedy required. The energetic performances are good-naturedly over the top, and the cast appears to be having as much fun as the audience.

Set designer, Thomas A. Brown; lighting, Ves Weaver; costumes, Stephanie Maslansky, Neda DeMayo; sound design, Jim Walker, Richard Right; makeup/special effects, William Butler. Opened July 22, 1993; reviewed Aug. 28; runs through Sept. 25.