What I liked
Additional stand outs were the production & tech; specifically the lighting choices, the sound cues, & the use of the space/blocking. “Technically” great with excellent timing and clarity on behalf of both the performer and the stage tech. Truly, just one person on stage – but it didn’t feel like a solo show in “that way” (you know the way). More than just a story, it was a truly interesting one. Reimagined and retold by a wonderful storyteller. As someone who wanted to be a marine biologist through much of my childhood, this show spoke to me deeply. I have to emphasize just how photogenic (stunning!) Kelly is. Their brilliant blue eyes reflecting the crooked tinsel behind and the kiddy pool below. If the real Margaret was anything like Kelly’s portrayal of her, it’s no wonder Peter (the dolphin) fell in love.
What I didn't like
No notes. Give them more money and more audiences.
My overall impression
“The Dolphin I Loved” is now officially a show that I loved. Kelly Reilly tenderly and hilariously tells the unbelievable but true tale of a rescue dolphin, an unlikely researcher, and their wild bond. “It’s a true story, Look it up” she told us more than once. And I did. And it is. This show is every bit as clever as it is absurd.
Such a captivating performance, you’ll almost forget she’s wearing tiny hands attached to wrists of the wetsuit the whole time. The audience roared with laughter through the entire hour, and at one point, even “eeeeee”d like dolphins, and were rewarded for our good behavior.
Kelly on stage is a delight to the senses, as they convincingly embody both Margaret and Peter (and perhaps slightly less convincingly, a few other fun stand-out characters along the way). It’s physical, it’s heartfelt, it’s genuinely interesting and truly enjoyable. There’s more than one silly song parody, a meeting with NASA, soliloquies, and fish! (no real fish! / no smell!)
