What I liked
As a 64 year old man, I enjoyed both the dialogue and direction as they adeptly transcended age and gender to remind me how love is universal and not generational.
I enjoyed James’s use of individual monologues as a transitional mechanism to move fluidly through the different relationships and also break the fourth wall to interact or perhaps just connect with the audience. At times they are seemingly intrusive and other times welcomely comfortable, as the characters remind us that real connection is often the missing ingredient we seek in our search for love amidst the ever changing societal constructs, or “appropriate PC” rules of engagement in dating or simply just finding friendship.
What I didn't like
There was nothing I didn’t like…. The only critique I have is with the tech. A couple of lighting cues were fumbled but I’m sure they will work it out.
The 7 actors are all worthy of honorable mention, no one person to be singled out, as they handled the delicate subject matter with honesty and grace.
Lastly the musical interludes were spot for my experience, you can’t go wrong with Nina Simone. I would definitely see SEVEN again. You should too.
Cris D.
My overall impression
I was fortunate to see Gerald James‘s SEVEN on preview night Saturday, June 7.
Curious to find meaning in the title SEVEN and its tagline “Learning lessons from those who only know a few of the rules”, I found the play to be a compelling exploration of the search for love through the eyes of seven young adults navigating their way through seven different intertwined relationships. Regardless of your orientation there’s something for everyone.
