John Fisher Does It All with Thrilling Comedy & Queer Politics

by John-Thomas Hanson

3…2…1… Action!

Hold onto your seats, folks! John Fisher is back with a high-octane, action-packed thrill ride in “FALLIN.” This sequel to the exhilarating “BILLY” is kicking off Theatre Rhinoceros’ 2024-25 season with several explosive bangs!

Ever dreamed of being a spy? John Fisher did—and now you’re invited into one of his wildest, globe-trotting, derring-do adventures yet.

The show bursts onto the stage with a dynamic duo of Special Ops commandos, The Colonel (Fisher) and Lieutenant Day (Raye Goh). They’re not just partners in saving the world—they are also partners in romance. Despite their age gap and differing political views, their shared queer love and passion for heroism unite them against a fresh wave of global threats.

Fisher’s contagious smile radiates queer charm and affection, making him a delightful counterpart to non-binary Goh’s mission-focused and stoic presence. They perfectly complement each other with their on-stage chemistry.

But the real show-stealer here is the action.

“FALLIN” is like throwing several blockbuster films into a blender and microwaving the mix on high for 70 minutes.

A playful jog through Central Park morphs into a pulse-pounding NYC subway chase that ends up in a fight scene above a live performance at the Met Opera. But what would be the climax for most plays is just the beginning for “FALLIN.” Buckle up as The Colonel and Day tackle the not-so-friendly skies, crossing paths with the irresistibly wicked Senator Bevis (Claire Elliott).

Elliott delivers a performance brimming with unnerving charm and comedic flair as a camera-hungry politician bent on world domination. Her larger-than-life portrayal of the seductive villain is accentuated with the comical handling of her invisible ninja “cloaks” and deadly “clone” minions.

Sitting quietly in the corner of the cozy store-front theatre in The Castro, Raphael Buenaventura operates lights, sound, and projections with a flair that’s anything but quiet. Without warning, he seamlessly morphs into diverse supporting characters. He becomes a power-hungry antagonist or a comically frantic mother—all while managing the tech boards.

There is more going on in this small black box theater than in the largest theaters in San Francisco.

Fisher and Goh are everywhere—climbing walls, hanging above the audience, popping up from every corner. Their stunts present a breathtaking testament to their physical prowess.

Award-winning director and writer John Fisher masterfully blends political commentary, queer themes, and over-the-top satire with intense physical theatre. You’ll leave with a kid-like grin and awe at how so much action can fit into such a compact space.

Mission accomplished.

Your mission? Snag your tickets at TheRhino.Org before this epic spy adventure wraps up.

“FALLIN” –written & directed by John Fisher, costumes by Crystal Liu, sound by Raphael Buenaventura, lighting by Colin Johnson, set construction by Lawrence Dillon & Danny Dillon, graphic design by Scott Sidorsky.

—at Theatre Rhinoceros, 4229 18^th Street at Castro, San Francisco. Info: therhino.org – to September 15, 2024.

Cast: John Fisher, Raye Goh, Claire Elliott, and Raphael Buenaventura.

Banner photo: Claire Elliott, Raye Goh, & John Fisher. Photos: Scott Sidorsky

ABOUT THEATRE RHINOCEROS: Founded in 1977, Theatre Rhinoceros is the world’s premier and longest-running queer theatre. “The Rhino” is dedicated to showcasing queer stories and creating a vibrant home for queer and allied artists.