THE PLAY: A 16-year-old turns up at a woman’s flat explaining that he was the person who found her recently-slain gay son.

THE PRODUCTION: From the opening scene it’s pretty obvious where this play is headed, so it’s about journey. Sadly, the show and the script ramble for almost 2 hours, including an extended monologue that culminates this laborious excursion. Jill Bari Steinberg and Keaton Hillman are both talented actors who are working hard…maybe too hard. Steinberg’s thick accent doesn’t always flow naturally and her character seems underdeveloped. Hillman doesn’t embody 16 and he’s often forcing the emotions. His long, crucial closing speech lacks momentum, which crushes the effectiveness of the climax. Director Vinnie Gonzalez has blocked the show effectively, but his lack of variety in the pacing and the actors’ lack of assurance results in a dramatic disconnect. Gonzalez also designed the set, a rundown apartment that’s faux distressed too much. The sound design by Candace Hudert was subtle, but why rain and thunder when they were just talking about snow? Running time: 1:55  (no intermission)

THE POINT: This talented duo is trapped in a bad play without sufficient directorial guidance to realize the opportunity for a dynamic drama. (2.5 / 5)

At Richmond Triangle Players thru 10/10