What I liked
The out of sequence scene between Ellis and Al really scratched my affinity for a flashback scene à la David Auburn’s Proof. The technical aspects of the show both lighting and sound were also beyond impressive and really elevated the piece.
What I didn't like
N/A – if you think this review is too nice, you’re a loser and probably haven’t seen urgent care. I wanted to lean forward in my seat and ask the director if anyone from the Geffen had seen this yet. “Urgent Care” is the kind of fantastic work that needs to be workshopped and shared at huge theaters around the world.
My overall impression
Warren Riley is a genius with a signature talent that feels like magic. This piece gorgeously weaves grounded, magnetic realism with a divinely inspired and mystical magical realism. The play is brilliant and evocative and feels entirely fresh, and is met there and elevated further by four deeply affecting performances. Riley embodies all aspects of Al in a moving and flawless performance, from his most excited and loving and open to his most self-hating and lost. Cameryn Bailey dazzles as Ellis. she’s the type of actor you can’t bring yourself to look away from and I found myself staggered by her ability to be wounded by love. Madeleine Curran’s praises also need to be sung for her anchoring, consistently but unintentionally funny work as the doctor — it takes a lot of intention and intelligence to act a seasoned, older vocation like medicine so well at such a young age. I was really blown away. Xol Gonzales has a magnetic stage presence and this effortlessly hilarious quality as Will. He’s a delight. And it’s clear through every moment of the show that Cypress Cai’s direction is a gift that has found order, excellence, and magic in this script and team of actors.
