What I liked
I saw this piece as a work-in-progress months ago, and I loved seeing the evolution. Aside from Alina herself and her story, which are both charming and compelling…the pacing is excellent, the projections between acts was a nice update. The opening was completely different from first time I saw it and it was so engaging.
What I didn't like
It’s not a specific critique of this show exactly but clowns scare me, and not in the “Pennywise from It” way, more like audience participation/crowdwork scares me. I did it of course but I should have maybe sat all the way in the back….
My overall impression
I do not throw this around lightly, but Lucille Ball’s spirit lives on in Alina. There’s something in her face, physicality, and timing…a silliness, spirit, sparkle! But she’s of course her own unique being, and I was absolutely riveted with every beat and shift. Hers is not a story we hear every day, and it’s absolutely fascinating. Alina is hilarious, even (or especially?) when coming out of an emotional or serious moment.
