Flying Over Sunset

 Flying Over Sunset
Lincoln Center Theater
Vivian Beaumont Theater
November 28, 2021 

Photo courtesy of Lincoln Center Theater

Flying Over Sunset is a psychological exploration of three true to life characters from the mid-20^th century (Aldous Huxley, Clare Boothe Luce, and Cary Grant).  The events leading up to the story are true, yet the action of the play is fiction.  It is a known fact that Aldous Huxley, Clare Boothe Luce, and Cary Grant experimented with LSD.  Playwright/Director James Lapine springboards this actuality into a journey of profound discovery and deep insight.  Tom Kitt’s music and Michael Korie’s lyrics lure the audience further in by engaging their imaginations and amplifying their emotions.  

We first meet Aldous Huxley (played by Harry Hadden-Paton) when his is shopping at Rexall Drugs with his wife Maria (played by Laura Shoop).  She instructed their close friend Gerald Heard (played by Robert Sella) to let Aldous try LSD.  The drug takes effect while they are shopping, and everything in the store vividly comes to life for Aldous. 

Tony Yazbeck, Harry Hadden-Paton, & Carmen Cusack
Photo courtesy of Lincoln Center Theater

Cary Grant (played by Tony Yazbeck) makes an appointment with his wife’s therapist (played by Nehal Joshi) to request a dose of LSD.  While under the influence of the drug, he sees himself as a child (played by Atticus Ware) performing in vaudeville in England, dressed in girl’s clothing.  Cary faces buried memories from his childhood, including his father’s abuse and his mother’s abandonment.

Gerald visits his dear friend Clare Boothe Luce (played by Carmen Cusack) in the garden of her Connecticut home.  She asks him to gives her LSD.  While under the influence, she sees a vision of her deceased daughter and mother, both of whom died in tragic car accidents.  She is joyous and comforted by this vision. 

During a chance meeting at the Brown Derby in Los Angeles, Aldous Huxley, Clare Boothe Luce, and Cary Grant reveal the serious changes they are all facing.  They joke that the one thing they all have in common is their experimentation with LSD.  They decide to meet and, with Gerald as their guide, share an LSD trip.  This experience takes them in separate directions, yet bonds them in genuine moments of mutual need and earnest understanding. 

Robert Selia, Harry Hadden-Paton,
Carmen Cusack, & Tony Yazbeck
Photo courtesy of Lincoln Center Theater

This is truly an ensemble musical, as each character has a separate and strong story line that comes together in the end.  Carmen Cusack is vibrant as Clare Boothe Luce.  Her character oozes with charm and her singing is magical.  Harry Haddon-Paton has a strong presence as Aldous Huxley.  He does everything as a stiff upper lip Englishman with a high intellect.  Tony Yazbeck is smooth as Cary Grant.  He captures the image perfectly, and fills the character with the truths and challenges the man struggled with his whole life.  Atticus Ware is outstanding as Archie Leach, the young Cary Grant.  He and Mr. Yazbeck complement one another very well.

Robert Sella (as Gerald Heard) is the glue that brings all the characters and events of the story together.  His character is consistently present, and his performance is firmly grounded.  There are also strong performances by Laura Shoop, Nehal Joshi, Kanisha Marie Feliciano, Michelle Ragusa, and Emily Pynenburg.  

Michelle Dorrance’s choreography creates rhythms that give the show a driving pulse.  Her duets create strong relationships and viscerally move the plot forward.  The set, designed by Beowulf Boritt, makes this Lincoln Center Theater production visually stunning. 

Flying Over Sunset explores the hardships that separate us and the opportunities that can bring us together.  It is playing at the Vivian Beaumont Theater through February 6. 

Domenick Danza

Kimberly Akimbo

 Kimberly Akimbo
Atlantic Theater Company
Linda Gross Theater
November 20, 2021 

The Atlantic Theater Company production of KimberlyAkimbo is sheer joy.  Playwright David Lindsay-Abaire has teamed up with composer Jeanine Tesori to adapt his original play of the same name into this musical adventure.  The phenomenal cast, under the direction of Jessica Stone, delivers outstanding performances that will stay with you long after the show is over.

Kimberly (played by Victoria Clark) is a fifteen year old girl who wishes that her family was “normal.”  Her father (played by Steven Boyer) drinks too much.  Her mother (played by Alli Mauzey) thinks only of herself.  Kimberly suffers from a rare genetic disorder where her body ages at an accelerated rate.  She looks and feels like a sixty year old woman and has a life expectancy of sixteen years.  Seth (played by Justin Cooley), a tuba playing puzzle expert, asks Kimberly to partner with him on their science project.  At first Kimberly says no, but when they are both left without a partner, she agrees.  Kimberly becomes intrigued by Seth’s unique way of seeing things, and a friendship develops.  When Kimberly’s Aunt Debra (played by Bonnie Milligan) pops into town, she recruits a few of Kimberly’s school mates (played by Olivia Elease Hardy, Fernell Hogan II, Nina White, & Michael Iskander) on an get rich quick scheme.  When Debra spills the beans on a family secret, Kimberly finds herself drawn into her aunt’s illegal plan. 

Steven Boyer & Victoria Clark
Photo courtesy of Atlantic Theater Company

Victoria Clark delivers a heartwarming performance as Kimberly.  Her character pushes past her comfort zone throughout the story.  Ms. Clark plays these moments with genuine naivete and a determined focus.  Justin Cooley is outstanding as Seth.  His openness and honesty is refreshing.  The connection between him and Ms. Clark is mesmerizing.  Steven Boyer and Allie Mauzey have a strong bond as Kimberly’s highly difunctional parents.  They both try as best they can to get their act together for Kimberly’s sake.  These two actors keep the subtext of tension throughout, making their fall predictable, even though you never stop rooting for them.

Bonnie Milligan drives the action forward, plotting and recruiting for Aunt’s Debra’s plan.  Ms. Milligan weaves many layers into this character.  She creates a likeable villain and, since her plan involves six innocent teenager, you keep your fingers crossed for her success.  Olivia Elease Hardy, Fernell Hogan II, Nina White, & Michael Iskander are an amazing ensemble.  They each create distinct roles that hide their own individual secrets, while propelled by a unified desire. 

The Creatvie Team of Kimberly Akimbo
Photo courtesy of Atlantic Theater Company

The fruits of David Lindsey-Abaire and Jeanine Tesori’s collaboration abound in this production.  Mr. Lindsey-Abaire’s lyrics flow smoothly through Ms. Tesori’s week-crafted score.  There are moments of sincere emotion and deep realization, as well as charming humor.  The set design by David Zinn is full or surprises. 

Kimberly Akimbo is playing at Atlantic Theatre Company’s Linda Gross Theater through December 26.  Don’t miss it! 

Domenick Danza

Luciérnagas

 Luciérnagas
National Queen Theater
14^th Street Y
November 19, 2021 

Photo courtesy of National Queen Theater

Javier Rivera DeBruin’s play Luciérnagas is a spiritual journey toward forgiveness and redemption.  Directed by Carlos Armesto, this National Queer Theater production is sensitive and touching.  The characters face realistic obstacles as they each strive to let go of the hurt they inherited.  The performances are all truthful and engaging.

Alexandra Taylor, Yasha Lelonek, & Gabriela Garcia
Photo courtesy of National Queer Theater

When Lupe (played by Teresa Yenque) dies, she leaves her cabin in the woods to her granddaughter, Mal (played by Alexandra Taylor).  Mal visits the cabin for a weekend to empty it and sell it, only to find Xara (played by Yasha Lelonek), a child-like spirit, dwelling within the cabin.  Mal’s estranged mother, Silvia (played by Gabriela Garcia), arrives with plans of taking up residence in the cabin.  As mother and daughter face their memories and hurt, Lupe’s ghost appears.  She cannot rest until the truth is revealed.  When the pain between these three generations of women is forgiven, Xara is set free.   

Alexander Taylor is rigid and determined as Mal, while Gabriela Garcia is open and easy as Sylvia.  This juxtaposition creates an immediate conflict between these two characters, which drives the action forward.  As their backstory comes to light, their portrayals authentically play out.  Both characters grow through the course of the action, and these two actors beautifully rise to the challenge.  Yasha Lelonek plays Xara as an innocent and mischievous sprit.  A combination of Puck and Ariel.  It is an engaging and intriguing portrayal.  Tesesa Yenque is grounded as Lupe.  She is the anchor to the family, yet has caused her share of the hurt and pain between her daughter and granddaughter.  Ms. Yenque believably portrays this dichotomy. 

Set designer Gaya Maria Chatterjee has created a warm and safe environment for the emotional journey of this story.  The National Queer Theater production of Luciérnagas is playing at the 14^th Street Y (14^th Street between 1^st and 2^nd Ave.) through November 30. 

Domenick Danza

Caroline, or Change

 Caroline, or Change
Roundabout Theatre Company
Studio 54
November 9, 2021 

Photo courtesy of Roundabout Theatre Company

Roundabout Theatre Company’s production of Caroline,or Change is bold and glorious.  The book and lyrics by Tony Kushner tells a very personal and intimate story, while the music by Jeanine Tesori exaggerates the emotional impact.  Director Michal Longhurst pulls very powerful performances out of the seventeen skilled cast members, who fill the stage of Studio 54 with energy, authenticity, and joy.  

Photo courtesy of Roundabout Theatre Company

Caroline (played by Sharon D Clarke) is the maid for the Gellman family in Lake Charles, Louisiana.  The year is 1963.  Caroline spends most of her time underground, in the basement doing laundry.  Eight year old Noah (played by Jaden Myles Waldman) visits her after school.  He misses his mother, who passed away from cancer.  Caroline is a strong link for Noah to his mother.  To teach him a lesson, Noah’s step mother, Rose (played by Caisie Levy), tells Caroline to keep any money she finds in Noah’s pockets when she does his laundry.  At first Caroline returns the spare change to Noah, unable to take money from a child.  Then Noah deliberately leaves coins in his pockets for Caroline to take home to her children.  When Noah accidentally leaves his twenty dollar Chanukah gelt given to him by his grandfather (played by Chip Zein), Caroline decides to keep it.  Noah demands its return, and Caroline voices hate in words she cannot take back.  She does not return to work for a week.  Caroline must come to terms with her inner struggle in order to heal herself and improve the relationship with her own children.  

Sharon D Clarke & Jaden Myles Waldman
Photo courtesy of Roudabout Theatre Company

Sharon D Clark is a powerhouse as Caroline.  This story hinges on the character’s inability to let go of hurt, and Ms. Clark is tenacious and immovable in this role.  When her backstory is revealed in Act II, all of what she portrayed in Act I comes into focus.  When she faces her truths, the release and healing is genuine.  Also vital to this story is the attachment Noah has to Caroline.  Jaden Myles Waldman is honest and truthful as Noah.  He and Ms. Clark are in sync and truly connected. 

Caisie Levy & Sharon D Clarke
Photo courtesy of Roundabout Theatre Company

Caisie Levy portrays dual sides of Noah’s stepmother, Rose.  On the outside she is perky and polite.  On the inside she is scared and frustrated.  Her performance is riveting, and adds some most needed humor to the storyline.  Tamika Lawrence is tough and vulnerable as Caroline’s friend, Dotty Moffett.  Samantha Williams is brave and rebellious as Caroline’s daughter, Emmie.  Her character grows throughout her journey.  She leaves us with the concluding moment of the play, which is poignant and relevant.

Here is a quote from the program by Director Michael Levy:  “This show is about how we all exits together – how we should share and acknowledge our privilege, not avoid it, in order to exist in greater peace.”  Caroline, or Change is playing at Studio 54 through January 9. 

Domenick Danza

Gnit

 Gnit
Theatre for a New Audience
Polonsky Shakespeare Center
November 6, 2021 

Photo courtesy of Theatre for a New Audience

Will Eno has taken Ibsen’s Peer Gynt and made it his own with Gnit, now playing downtown Brooklyn at Theatre for a NewAudience.  The quest for the self at the expense of everything is still the main action, yet the story is simpler, more concise.  His main character, Peter, is still the self-centered liar as Ibsen’s Peer, but in Gnit the quest is not fully realized.  Peter’s adventures do not land him in a secure and warm place, but leave him questioning, and presenting that question to the audience.

Joe Curnutte & Deborah Hedwall
Photo courtesy of Theatre for a New Audience

In the opening scene Peter’s mother (played by Deborah Hedwall) is waiting for his return.  She is sick and in need of his care.  When Peter (played by Joe Curnutte) finally returns, he is full of stories, and does not acknowledge his mother’s need.  He is off again when his mother tells that the woman he once loved is set to marry another man.  On the way to steal back the bride, he meets Solvay (played by Jasmine Batchelor), and falls in love.  The town sues Peter's mother for the disruption he causes at the wedding, leaving her with nothing.  Peter runs to the mountains and becomes entrapped by a woman (played by Christy Escobar) whose father (played by David Shih) promises him wealth and stability.  Peter escapes, returning to build a home for him and Solvay.  As soon as the house is complete, the woman from the mountains finds him.  With their child in her arms, she tries to lure him back.  Before fleeing, Peter visits his mother on her death bed.  He is present for her passing, but leaves before her burial. 

In Act II, Peter finds his fortune, then carelessly loses it.  He travels the world in search of himself, only to return to the home he built for himself and Solvay, too late to spend time with her.  She has passed, and Peter is left questioning the purpose of his journey. 

Photo courtesy of Theatre for a New Audience

Joe Curnutte captures the audience’s attention on his first entrance.  His character grows throughout his journey, driven by his main objective and continually probing any questions he faces.  Deborah Hedwall is powerful as Peter’s Mother.  She reaches deep to portray the hurt, loneliness, and disappointment of the character.  She and Mr. Curnutte have a strong connection.  Among the stylized interpretations in this production, the most intimate moment is between these two actors at the death of the Mother.

The huge cast of Ibsen’s play is performed by six actors in this adaptation.  The ensemble work is outstanding.  Jasmine Batchelor has a subtle and effective presence as Solvay.  There are equally strong performances by Jordan Bellow, Christy Escobar, and David Shih.  These amazing actors play numerous roles, quickly transforming into distinct characters in the blink of an eye.  

Playwright Will Eno
Photo courtesy of Theatre for a New Audience

Will Eno’s writing is rhythmic and prolific.  The relationships are established quickly through the tone of the writing.  Director Oliver Butler keeps this rhythm and tone consistent throughout the production, heightening the humor, sharply focusing the theme, and giving the audience distance to fully experience the extensive journey of the characters. 

The Theatre for a New Audience production of Will Eno’s Gnit is a MUST SEE.  Originally schedule and rehearsed for a March 2020 opening, the stunning set, designed by Kimie Nishikawa, remained on the Scripps mainstage of the Polansky Shakespeare Center throughout the pandemic.  It is sheer joy to finally experience this engaging piece of theatre.  Gnit is playing through November 21.  Don’t miss it! 

Domenick Danza