What I liked
This show rocketed to the top of my must-see list! The script by Pamela Eberhardt and Dan Testa is razor-sharp without an ounce of fluff. Like the proverbial frog, I found myself settling into the warm water, allowing the jokes to lull me into a sense of security, only to realize I was boiling long after the lid was placed on the pot and there was no going back. I called a few of the twists, but the last few completely blindsided me as the final dominoes fell. I sat there stunned, completely disarmed. Apologies if I didn’t stand, as the show deserves a standing ovation. I was just in complete and utter shock.
The knockout punch in this masterful combination is the trio of actors. All of them are able to access the highest peaks and deepest pits of humanity, keeping me on my toes and the edge of my seat the entire time. Jeff Scot Carey, despite having the least stage time, makes his presence felt throughout. If I had any time in my Fringe schedule, I’d see this against just to rewatch his performance. Lucas Alifano is exactly what you need for this type of role: irresistibly charming, cute, and sweet—yet unafraid to plumb the depths of the human psyche. The anchor and core of the show is Emily Clark. All the subtlety of the best film actors with all the presence of the best stage actors. Her performance is filled to the brim with compassionate empathy, powerful strength, and nuance that hints at so much beneath Hannah’s calm, professional surface.
Like the best thriller/horror, the most violent parts of this play are constructed in the viewers’ minds.
What I didn't like
Not an improvement, just a caution. This one sticks with you. I didn’t feel very good after (that’s a narrative positive, and I believe the intended effect) and urge you to heed the genre, description, and content warning and protect yourself.
My overall impression
A harrowing thriller that draws you in and strikes quickly!
