The Layover

The Layover

Second Stage Theatre

Tony Kiser Theatre

August 21, 2016

Photo courtesy of Second Stage Theatre

The Layover is a thought provoking play presently running at Second Stage Theatre.  Director Tripp Cullman focuses the actors on creating strong, realistic relationships that ring true and evoke empathy.  Leslye Headland's script is well structured, full of unexpected turns, and driven by clear, crisp dialogue. 

Shellie (played by Annie Parisse) and Dex (played by Adam Rothenberg) meet on a flight from Chicago to New York.  When the flight is cancelled and passengers are put up in the airport Marriott, they have a one night stand before going back to their normal lives.  They are both unable to get the other one out of their thoughts.  Finally, one of them hires a private investigator to track the other one down, and finds that everything that was said was a lie.

Adam Rothenberg & Annie Parisse
Photo courtesy of Second Stage Theatre

The scenic design, by Mark Wendland, stylistically divides the expansive space of the Tony Kiser Theatre to allow concentrated focus during the more intimate scenes.  He also splits the space so that scenes in separate locations can be delivered simultaneously.  Mr. Cullman effectively stages these parallel scenes so the characters can stare at each other across time and distance.  This heightens the theme of how certain experiences stay alive in our minds for extended periods of time.  This premise is explored through the point of view of the two main characters and Shellie’s father (played by John Procaccino).  The theme is strong, relatable, and prolifically expressed.  It is further enhanced through lighting design by Japhy Weideman and video design by Jeff Sugg.

Amelia Workman, Quincy Dunn-Baker,
Arica Himmel, & John Procaccino
Photo courtesy of Second Stage Theatre

The chemistry between Annie Parisse and Adam Rothenberg is palpable and visceral.  Both actors hook you in scene one, and skillfully transition your attention as the deeper layers of their characters are revealed.  There are also strong performance from John Procaccino, Amelia Workman, Quincy Dunn-Baker, and Arica Himmel.

The Layover is running at Second Stage Theatre through September.  The ending has some mystery and provides discussion of the characters’ true motivations and sense of reality.  See it with a friend and prepare for an in depth conversation afterwards.

Domenick Danza