Don't miss 'Caveman' next year; 'Sea Monsters' in 3-D

If you were one of he lucky few who squeezed into the Brewery's Performance Hall last weekend for "Defending the Caveman," you know what a fine and funny show it was with Isaac Lamb as the Caveman. His was the fine performance of a skilled actor not only speaking the lines, but also illuminating with body and hands with witty skill. He got laughs from just raising his hands in the air and pointing his fingers.

This was his second appearance as the Cavemen here (he's done the show more than 600 times) and with luck he'll be back next season. This was one of the comedy shows that did more than amuse; it also revealed a lot of why we do what we do, still carrying the habits we formed as hunters and gatherers back in the Stone Age. Why women love shopping and men hate it. More than a few heads were nodding as he scored his points.

You might want to make reservations now for next year. Call John Procaccini at the Brewery and tell him to put you on the list.

SOME SPECIAL SHOWS

National Geographic's "Sea Monsters: A Prehistoric Adventure" sneaked into town with little notice, but if you want to see a thrilling 3D film, this is your chance. Haven't had a chance to see it yet, but reportedly it's a real kick. Playing at the Galaxy Fandango.

Friday and Saturday Vox Lumiere's "Hunchback of Notre Dame" appears in the Celebrity Showroom of John Ascuaga's Nugget in Sparks at 8 p.m. Tickets are $40.

At Harrah's Lake Tahoe Paul Rodriguez supplies the comedy Saturday night. Tickets are $47.50. Tickets are at (800) 786-8208.

Benise, a flamenco guitarist, will play Friday at the Grand Sierra Resort and Casino at 8 p.m. Tickets at (800) 648-3568. Or see www.grandsierraresort.com.

The Pioneer Center for Performing Art presents the Nevada Opera's "Aida" by Verdi at 7:30 p.m. Friday and at 2 p.m. Sunday. One of the most popular of all operas, "Aida" combines the spectacular and exotic features of grand opera. Visit www.nevadaopera.org or cal 786-4046. Even rock lovers can enjoy this one.

Saturday the Crystal Bay Casino presents "Electronica Fest," featuring Lotus in the Crown Room and After Party with Blu-Sirkut. Guests must be ages 21 and over. See www. crystalbaycasino.com.

FROM THE VAULTS

On Nov. 15, 1959, the brutal murder of a family in a small Kansas town sent shockwaves through the nation and snagged one of the most distinctive minds of our time. Author Truman Capote goes to Kansas to write an article about the crimes for The New Yorker magazine,along with his childhood pal Nelle. He ended up writing one of the most celebrated books of the century and created a new kind of literature

Capote went on to write "In Cold Blood," a chilling nonfiction kind of fiction, about the murders. It was at times thought the most important book of its times.

"Capote," played by the incredible actor Philip Seymour Hoffman, is a New York celebrity who becomes entangled with the two murderers, one in particular. He weaves his way into their friendships and even finds them a lawyer.

With a sly, gay style and brutal wit Capote charms the locals and works his way into the story behind the murders. He's soon shocked, however, to find himself forming a friendship with one of the killers, Perry Smith (Clifton Collins Jr.).

As the book nears completion and execution day approaches, Capote finds himself in a dilemma: He can't finish his book until the two friends are executed, but he has become too close to them to want them to die. His childhood friend and fellow writer Nelle Harper Lee (the excellent Catherine Keener) is his accomplice and conscience.

Bennett Miller directed this stark existential drama which in many ways sums up our current morality. Running time is 98 minutes, in color, rated R. It's a cruel but important watch. Released in 2005.

• Contact Sam Bauman at 881-1236 of Sbauman@nevadaappeal.com.