What I liked
Reena demonstrated great fearlessness, whether in delivering the opening orgasm in total darkness or invoking the goddess Kali in awakening her true self. She used her voice to not just create multiple characters but to provide contours of expression within single characters, especially in her final standoff with her “master.” And she is a delicious mover.
What I didn't like
I actually liked this aspect, but since I am required to fill this in I will say that Reena’s Russian accent endearingly sounds like that of an Indian man. Also, the script/narrative is presented in a very conventional fashion, and one could imagine an entire reworking of the material that becomes an inquiry into the subjective nature of such an experience, one that might provide commentary on the nature of narrative itself as well as further the idea of such a retelling—one that might change with each performance, presenting new risks for the performer and audience.
My overall impression
Reena propels herself through her challenging transformation into and out of a spiritual prison with extraordinary grace, openness, conviction, and humor. Her willingness to reveal her turbulent experience is both a thrilling ride and a cautionary tale for young women straitjacketed by societal demands to the point of denying their own agency in the world. She is an inspired presence on stage who has prepared a narrative that contains emotional complexity and great power.
