What I liked
As a critical lover of theatre I am constantly questioning: why? Why this play, why now, why this choice or the other? I am utterly pleased that this show answers its own ‘why,’ with conversational prose that is relatable to our current climate.
The simplicity of plot, staging, and set are clean cut choices that produce large scale spectacle on fringe level, making a lot out of a little, and the use of extras is savvy and fun. When I caught myself drifting from the text, it was nice to check in with the other “cows;” some had opinions.
What I didn't like
Because so many aspects of the play were predefined, one might assume that the bulk of the rehearsal process would have been dedicated to character development, actor connection, and script analysis, as this play relies heavily on these elements. Perhaps with more rehearsal, this team might achieve their goals, but as of preview week, only one of the actors had done their homework. The social and political commentary waxed and waned between being spot-on and last-year’s-problem. Instead of exploring a bond deep enough to incite a revolution, I was left with too much “meh” in my milk.
My overall impression
Fans of CBS programming will love this “absurdist lite” play from the creators of “Latitude.”
