Backstagers: Halloween Intermission
Written by James Tynion IV and Sam Johns
Art by Rian Sygh, Savanna Ganucheau, and Shan Murphy
Colored by Walter Baiamonte
Lettered by Jim Campbell
Review by KrisK
Backstagers returns with a Halloween special! Backstagers follows a crew of theater techs at St. Genesius Prepatory School. They build the sets, run the lights and the sounds, and try not to blow anything up. (At least until after the last curtain fall) The Backstagers also must manage the literal magic of theater. This can manifest in monsters, ghosts, and ghouls around Halloween. Luckily, the upperclassmen are there to handle it! Or attempt to. (Don’t ask me why one has a beard, he’s in high school)
This issue is an anthology of short stories, the first being longest, and frankly best. Mystery blends the paranormal and a hint of romance, when the upperclassmen reveal why they must always spend the night on the stage at Halloween. Or else…The other stories revolve around quick little theater techie lessons, like staying in the light and don’t lie.
The writing by Tynion IV, while very different then his work on DC series like Detective Comics, is still high class. He writes what he clearly knows and loves. Sam Johns guest spots on the shorter issues, and while they lack the heart of the longer story, they still pack the fun and insight. The art hums along in the same Boombox style, reminiscent of Lumberjanes.
Only downside is the story for the main series isn’t advanced at all. Unless the world’s cutest bug reappears. The world can always use more cute.
Verdict: Check it out! This comic offers all ages Halloween fun perfect for the kid or adult looking to get into the season but avoid the horror. Backstagers: Halloween Intermission delivers the same brand of fun that Boombox prides itself on.
