Contributed by Khadijjah Mote
Summer
in the city has always reminded me of two things: live concerts and live
theater. Live theater rings bells from every corner in this great city, and the
Indie Theater world never ceases to amaze eager audiences looking for something
raw and fresh. With so much happening in the theater circuit, one can't help
but to hear the buzz going around about InViolet Repertory Company's
performance of "This Is Fiction" written by Megan Hart, directed by
Shelley Butler and performing at Cherry Lane Studios. Shelley Butler's take on
a close to home story; being a native New Jerseyan myself. Aubyn Philabaum
plays a young rebellious Amy, returning home to suburban New Jersey after fleeing one bad situation
after another. A life that she leaves far behind after her venture off to
college to excite herself with more than what home had to offer. Philabaum's
portrayal of Amy, a self absorbed damsel in distress, showed much contrast to
the other characters, sticking out like a sore thumb in her own home. A home
that is being relived in a biographical novel she plans on writing about her
sick father and alcohol addicted mother.
Within
that home is a bitter big sister, played by Michelle David, who's life lead her
to taking care of a senile father and not getting to live the life her younger
sister left them for. David effortlessly carries the hurt Celia, with sharp
humor and intense emotional hurt, one can't help but to wish to simply give her
a hug and thank her for staying behind to care for her family. Something she
grudges after her younger sister, Amy.
The
most rewarding performance of the night goes to the lovable senile father,
brilliantly played by Richard Masur. Seeing him perform live was like finding a
four leaf clover, so very lucky. With ticks and quirks, he stole the show with
his charm and loving spirit. You felt bad for him because it was never quite
certain if he ever really knew the fate of his wife, or if it was something he
intentionally blocked out in order to find harmony in his household.
Nonetheless, his performance is definitely a must-see.
I'm
eager to see what's next for InViolet Rep, but I'm sure if that's what they
have to start off with, there's no telling where their season could take
itself. All that is certain is that you can definitely count me in attendance.
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Khadijjah Mote, Innovative Theatre Foundation OutReach Intern
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