BEFORE A FALL

BEFORE A FALL was one of the best shows I've seen produced in the Hollywood Fringe in the last few years. Acting, writing and directing were all superb. If you crave a great piece of theatre, do yourself a favor and buy tickets now to see this show!!... full review

Yesterday, I attended the opening show of Before A Fall and before it started, I had read a synopsis that made it sound a bit on the depressing side. But at the end, we understood that when this type of subject matter is written, directed and performed by top notch professionals, you come away with the realization that excellence can be found in the most unexpected and surprising ways. We were impressed by all facets; the use of lighting to highlight the drama, having the actors look at the audience to bring them into the "action" of the play, it was as if the characters were talking to us. And the way the scenes kept revealing bits and pieces of the plot in growing intensity and anticipation. All in all, this is a must see if you love in... full review

I saw the preview performance of "Before A Fall" yesterday, and I could tell this was a group very ready for an audience. Go be that audience. This is a story that, like "To Kill a Mockingbird", is not an entirely comfortable, but it is an important message and well-written, nonetheless. And like the dramatization of "Mockingbird", it addresses these uncomfortable ideas an in an appropriate, non-offensive way. These actors and this script deserve an audience. The actors had a secure handle of their characters and conveyed the intricacies and secrets of the story with depth and control. Costa played Darla June Hawkins, the young woman at the center of the drama, with much aplomb. She demonstrated a nice balance of too much unwanted e... full review

Before A Fall is a very well crafted drama. Early on the tone is set and I found myself curious where the story was going, which kept me engaged and watching for any signs of what mystery was to be revealed. Allie Costa and Worth Howe give wonderful, truthful, and in-depth performances, never telegraphing what may come next but keeping you engaged and wondering what the story's next move will be. Most definitely a "go see" play.... full review

The play BEFORE A FALL captured something I haven't seen since HOW I LEARNED TO DRIVE. Dark and full of turns, this play kept me interested and concerned for the characters and their lives. Go see it!!! ... full review

I was fascinated by this play. I brought a friend along and prepared her for the weight of the subject matter. We were both in awe and riveted by the show. The staging, acting, and story expertly brought to life the darkest nuances of abuse. This play is brave, thoughtful, and haunting. I highly recommend it for the story, the complexity of the characters, and the triumph of hope in the bleakest of circumstances. It expertly manages to be both moving and entertaining. Go!! ... full review

Just saw it and it was a powerful experience. Superbly written, it's a gripping drama that will make you a better person for seeing it. The cast is amazing too. The emotional resonance it brings is absolutely palpable. Loved it whole heartedly.... full review

Before a Fall was a very moving play, beautifully directed and acted. A well-assembled cast portraying complex, multi-layered characters. I highly recommend this production.... full review

It's John Grisham meets Tracey Letts meets Winter's Bone as Lily Mercer deftly tackles difficult subject matter in her compelling new Southern Gothic courtroom thriller. The acting is superb and the staging is crisp and fast-paced as nary a beat is wasted in this exploration of damaged characters doing their best to function in their grossly dysfunctional society. Congrats to Ms. Mercer and the brave cast for fearlessly telling this story and raising awareness of its disturbing issues. A must see in this year's festival.... full review

Just saw Lily Mercer's wonderful "Before A Fall," where sobs could be heard in the audience by the last scene. The play deals with highly charged material, which is sure to trigger deep emotional responses. Ultimately uplifting, the piece explores the brutal landscape of the Serenity Prayer: "God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, The courage to change the things I can, And wisdom to know the difference." Brilliantly played by Allie Costa, young Darla forces the adults surrounding her to struggle for that wisdom. The large cast, including the incredible Jamie Mcrae playing six-year-old Lala, delivered many strong performances. Mercer is definitely a writer/director to watch.... full review