What I liked
This show takes the audience on a complete, honest journey. Without giving away spoilers, parts of the Tracey’s life story are sadly, not unimaginable. Having said that, it does not diminish her pain, struggle, and inevitable ability to “get back on the bike.”
A few of my favorite songs in the show are as follows: “Riding a Bike,” “Things,” and “Home.”
Kudos also go out to director David Deblinger for how this show flows from moment to moment.
What I didn't like
My one thought about improvement is more about ways to enhance the show. Our ears get the benefit of hearing phenomenal, professional singing. It might be nice to have some sort of visual aids to accompany some of the storytelling. Food for thought.
My overall impression
Walking into The Actor Company’s Little Theater, I knew that “All These Pretty Things” would be a very intimate solo show. On-stage were a few black boxes, a Tibetan singing bowl and mallet, and most importantly, a keyboard.
Once singer/songwriter, Tracey Yarad entered holding her warm tea, she greeted the audience and launched into her show. Starting with an early marriage to an older man, his substance abuse led to the demise of their marriage. This resulted in her multi-year long “Celibacy.”
Throughout a series of nine of sections of the show with a mixture of ballads and uptempos, Yarad details falling in love with husband number two, and building their life together.
With charm, nuance, and power vocals, this solo show is a testament to silver linings and leaps of faith.
