THE PLAY: A gay man breaks up with his partner and becomes involved with a woman. His confusion results in verbal sparring about sexuality and love.

 

THE PRODUCTION: This script features a torrent of language and high-pitched emotions. This cast makes their tightly-wound performances continually compelling with acute concentration and verbal mastery. The in-the-round, close-up proximity provides a rush of intensity, even when the blocking obscures faces. Director Wesley Young moves most of the dialogue at a manic pace, but allows a few appropriate moments of quiet passion. Maggie Bavolack’s dirt pit setting provides an appropriately gritty atmosphere. Considering the intimate environment and stylized staging, this becomes a stimulating character encounter.

 

THE POINT: Witness a verbal and emotional cock fight that’s fought by a continually compelling cast.

 

(4 / 5)

 

A production of TheatreLAB at The Basement thru 6/20

 

Watch the SIFTER interview with the director.