My overall impression
Lisa Cole’s stage presence is so warm and energetic. And as the play progresses, it becomes clear that her self-described “perky” energy comes from a deep well of pain belied by her bubbly personality. This depth and heartbreak tumbles out in surprising – and surprisingly effective ways during “If You’re Watching This, I’m Dead.” Just when you think it’s going in a funny direction, there’s a sharp twist, a perfectly-placed word or phrase that sends you reeling. And just when it’s the darkest, there she is again with an unexpected quip that keeps us – and herself – laughing through the pain. I loved following her story – though the video camera and television screen had me wondering where to look. Her stories drew my emotions so that I almost wanted to distance myself by watching her face on the screen. But in the end, I was always drawn back in to watch her directly in this intimate, human performance.
