N/A

 N/A
Lincoln Center Theater
Mitzi E. Newhouse Theater
June 15, 2024 

Photo courtesy of Lincoln Center Theater

The Lincoln Center Theater production of Mario Correa’s N/A brings two powerhouse performers together to portray two powerful political figures.  Holland Taylor plays N (modeled after Nancy Pelosi).  Ana Villafañe plays A (modeled after Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez).  The play is a masterfully written battle of ideas.  It is on-going debates of issues vs. morals, process vs. change, old ways vs. new ideals, all between two very strong opposing forces, who are very much alike.

It is A’s first day as a new member of Congress.  She is summoned to N’s office for an early meeting.  N wants to get to know her, and review a few ground rules.  A wants to dive in and address the important issues.  Right away they are at odds.  This continues as the Democrats gain control of the House, and N needs A’s vote to become Speaker.  A is determined to make change, while N knows that sometimes compromise is the only possible outcome.  After the events of January 6, the women find common ground.  Neither are safe.  When Republicans re-gain control of the House and N steps down as Speaker, she encourages A to run for Whip (the party’s “enforcer”).  A does not see that as part of her plan, yet it is clear she will not give up fighting and that she has N’s respect and support.  

This play is skillfully written.  It directly addresses the big issues (border control, immigration, privilege/racism/sexism, the democratic process).  The characters debate cause, solutions, and time frames.  Playwright Mario Correa chooses not to name any of the political individuals involved.  We all know who they are referring to, as well as who they two actors are portraying.  The omission of names allows the issues and challenges to be the focus, without the emotional response associated with certain individuals.  His choice qualifies this play as an impersonal record of the awareness, growth, and stagnation that took place over the four year time frame of the play (2018-22).  You can compare it to where we are today, and think about what is needed as we move forward.

Holland Taylor & Ana Villafañe
Photo courtesy of Linclon Center Theater

Holland Taylor and Ana Villafañe deliver masterful performances as N and A.  They are equally
matched, and ignite fires in every moment.  Director Diane Paulus beautifully shifts the focus from one character to the other, as each gains or loses status throughout the piece. 

N/A is a special event production, playing at the Mitzi E. Newhouse Theater at Lincoln Center for a limited run.  You have until August 4.  Don’t hesitate.  Get a ticket! 

Domenick Danza

Crossing

Crossing

2017 BAM Next Wave Festival

October 8, 2017

 

Photo courtesy of 2017 BAM Next Wave Festival

The American Repertory Theater production of Crossing was part of the 2017 BAM Next Wave Festival.  This new opera, composed, written, and conducted by Matthew Aucoin, was inspired by Walt Whitman’s diary entries during the time he volunteered at a Civil War hospital.  It explores Whitman’s essential question, “What is it, then, between us?”  The production is majestic and relevant.  Director Diane Paulus keeps everything simple and concise, allowing the music to envelope the audience and the moments to be true and personal.

Photo courtesy of 2017 BAM Next Wave Festival

From the BAM program notes, written by Matthew Aucoin:  “So, in Crossing, the Walt Whitman who walks the stage is not that familiar poetic persona.  Rather, this is Whitman as I imagine he might have been to himself, starting from a midlife crisis which prompts his radical, heroic decision to drop everything and volunteer in the war hospitals.  Naturally, this Whitman is a fictional creation.  Crossing is a musical fantasia which imagines and realizes the many forces – generosity, insecurity, longing, selflessness, bravery, unfulfilled sexual desire, a need to escape his own life, a boundless kindness – that caused a man named Walter Whitman, Jr. to forge an indelible embodiment of the American spirit in his poetry.”

Ron Gilfry & Alexander Lewis
Photo courtesy of 2017 BAM Next Wave Festival

Ron Gilfry commands the stage as Walt Whitman.  Alexander Lewis creates intrigue in the character of John Wormley.  Davone Tines captures the audience’s attention when he tells the haunting background story of his character Freddie Stowes.

The projection design by Finn Ross brings depth and imagination to the emotional stories shared by the characters.  Jill Johnson’s choreography adds dimension to the realistic and somber hospital environment.

Crossing was presented at the BAM Next Wave Festival from October 3 – 8.  Keep your eyes peeled for additional live performances or video broadcasts.  It is well worth seeing. 

Domenick Danza