What I liked
Brendan is a skilled storyteller with an infectious, effervescent flair. From minute one, he had a captive (again, willingly) audience as he effortlessly delivered laughs and [metaphorical] gut punches on solid rotation. This “Mrs. Boy” has chops, kiddos, and furthermore has something to say.
This jaded critic laughed frequently and gutturally, and very nearly cried. Multiple sniffs around me confirmed my experience was not unique.
What I didn't like
I caught the preview performance. Everything in the program felt effortless EXCEPT the last beat, which was forced. Didn’t sully my overall experience, neither did calling for line more than once. Tech needs to tighten up, and did I miss the bell ding explanation?
I know it’s early in HFF26, but I’m calling it: The Abyss will rise! Bravo.
My overall impression
Brendan Scannell is going down and he’s taking us all (willingly) with him! Relevant, relatable, and yet singularly his own, “The Abyss” is L.A. storytelling worth experiencing!
