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
