What I liked
With such a simple setting, two people on a city rooftop, the dialogue and the acting needed to be top-notch and it was all A+. The actors Tiffany Smith and VonDexter Montegut II delivered playwright J.Holtham’s beautiful words with comfort and finesse, as if they had been these two characters for years. I cannot say enough kind words about the writing. The Sphere of Fixed Stars deserves to be seen on a larger stage with a bigger budget, should the creators want to take it that far. It’s a piece that sticks with you long after it ends. I’ve seen a lot of LA Theatre over the years, including huge productions on our largest stages, and this was still one of the best ever. Additional props to co-director Ellie Pyle for helping J. bring his show to life.
What I didn't like
As mentioned above, I’d love to see this play with a larger budget given for props, lighting, makeup, and setting. I know the Fringe festival has it’s own limitations with time and venue.
My overall impression
I know the writer and I know he’s very talented, but The Sphere of Fixed Stars in the Heavens took me to another level that I knew was possible but still didn’t expect. It’s an incredibly touching story about love and loss, expectations and boundaries, told through a unique and unexpected lens that I can’t share without spoiling.
