Octet

Octet

Signature Theatre

The Pershing Square Signature Center

May 4, 2019

Photo courtesy of Signature Theatre

Eight people come together every week to share their stories of internet addiction.  This is the premise for playwright, compose, lyricist Dave Malloy’s Octet.  The Signature Theatre production leads you on an extremely personal journey into your own mind and obsessions, and makes you question the purpose of your repetitive behaviors.  At the end of the show one character asks, “Why always eight people?”  It must be for the acapella singing, which they do to perfection. 

Photo courtesy of Signature Theatre

Dave Malloy has written eight characters that on the surface seem ordinary, until they dive deep into how the internet has taken control of them.  Whether it is games, dating apps, chat rooms, porn, or tarot, each character reveals their inner yearning and how it is satisfied when they are on the internet.  What is most remarkable is how their vocalization unites them on their journey of self-discovery and assessment.  Music Direction by Or Matias is detailed and flawless.  The phenomenal ensemble cast blends to make one sound, then above it all is heard the lead singer telling their story.  Director Annie Trippe’s staging builds the action and intensity of the one hour and forty-five minute experience to profound levels of revelation and unification. 

The full cast of Octet
Photo courtesy of Signature Theatre

Dave Malloy is Signature Theatre’s first musical theatre writer in their Residency 5 program.  He is a truly gifted story teller with a unique voice and a style all his own.  It is going to be a joy to follow his work at Signature.  Octet is playing at The Pershing Square Signature Center through June 16.

Domenick Danza