My overall impression
I loved this show. Introspective and intimate, Greg Abbott channels five different characters inspired from his Midwest upbringing, all distinct in their passions and heartaches, and beautifully, clearly performed.
In a time right now where the entertainment industry is in a rather mysterious place, it was a comfort and delight to slip into the time/space of a “Prairie Home Companion” – like atmosphere…only to see that these characters too share the same unknown-ness that many of us artists do.
Abbott masterfully weaves many heroes’ journeys under the guise of “simple” Midwest folk that face challenges everyone can recognize and relate to. Pay close attention to the Russian character, and his refusal to file a lawsuit despite encouragement by his peers. It is a brilliant and subtle comment on our society’s attachment to victim mentality. His take on it will inspire you – just one of many moments in the piece.
I’m hoping to see more of these characters and others – Abbott’s writing and performance is unique and honest – never caricature – I feel like he respects his characters too much, and thus so do we. They become people we know and love and root for, and again, hope to see more of.
So go. Go go go.
-A.W.
