OH SHIT, I’M TURNING INTO MY MOTHER

1998.By Bridgette Reinsmoen.

Tod Petersen anchors his Theater Latté Da musical with ruminations about his mother, both recent and from his childhood. Through he’s a fine entertainer—he was seemingly born performing—his mom deserves credit for a lot of the material. There’s some ribbing at her expense (“Mary Poppins was her favorite actress,” Petersen claims), but it’s pretty tame stuff. (In fact, it’s hard to believe he can’t muster a bit more antipathy; most of the audience could probably lend him some.) Petersen’s monologue is broken up by songs from other cast members that explore different aspects of motherhood, including “Don’t Tell Mama” from Cabaret. Rather than being a distraction, these add greatly to the show: Both Aimee Bryant and Katy Elsen have standout voices. Ultimately, Oh Shit… (Petersen’s mom suggested “Oh Shoot,” or perhaps “Oh Shucks”) is a feel-good show—and what mother wouldn’t love that? 7 p.m. Sundays through November 15; 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Sunday, November 22; 11 p.m. Saturdays through November 21; and 8 p.m. Mondays November 2 and 9. Loring Playhouse, 1633 Hennepin Ave., Mpls.; 337-6666.