What I liked
Anytime you have daring actors (who are also great singers), masterful technical elements of light, costume, space and sound, AND a director with a DYNAMIC VISION and NEED TO TELL THE UNTOLD STORY, you have the recipe for a successful show!! Some of the best pieces end with the unknown, with the audience having to make the tough choices for themselves. This is one of those shows! Don’t expect to find answers, expect to be mesmerized on the journey! BRAVO, BRAVO, BRAVO!!
What I didn't like
While specific plot points are still unknown or ambiguous, a trigger warning is probably still in order for this show. And… if I’m being extra picky, the business at the top (while audience was trickling in) needs refinement. While I appreciate purposeful repetition, in my humble opinion, it didn’t really serve as a launching pad to beginning of the piece.
My overall impression
There is something to be said about intimate theatrical productions pushing the boundaries of drama, movement, music, song, and creation!! This piece made me remember my experimental theatre roots in the BEST WAYS possible because I could sense how this devised piece was a joy to manifest!! I came to 1972 having already had a delicious taste of the work that John Wuchte’s ensembles are capable of sharing and this one did not disappoint! While it labels itself a “workshop” or “work-in-progress” piece, what I witnessed was definitely more polished than not. It was ensemble work at its highest level and the entire cast should be incredibly proud of this show which I am sure will only continue to blossom!
