What I liked
My favorite parts were from beginning to middle. Wes has a great singing voice, and I could listen to him for much longer. His story telling ability was wonderful, and his physicality was just perfect and really helped the story/situation advance. I loved the inclusion of the audience, the pre- planted actors and the real volunteers alike.
What I didn't like
I would love more history of Wes and his need for love. Was he dropped and is heartbroken? Has he ever been able to have a girlfriend? I think that would help clarify what is real and what isn’t – what was his intention? Was the play about the need for love, or was he just messing around in the theater, originally planning on Turtle Town? It wasn’t clear what Wes (the character) was doing there in stage. What his reason for being there was. Also, more singing and dancing to help tell the idyllic story of Turtle Town. It would add to the innocence and vibe of a grammar school play and make the parts where the other Wes was directing, even more uncomfortable. And sordid. Maybe slow down the bit with the water so it can be fully understood re AI and the effect in the environment.
My overall impression
I didn’t know what to expect and I’m glad I didn’t know more. The show is incredibly funny. It’s not just conventional humor, it’s elevated from dry wit to sarcasm to slapstic to intellectual and at times, dark. It will carry you through an array of emotions. There were times where I just wanted to get up from my seat and hug Wes, and tell him it’ll be ok. I also wanted challenge him, because…Wes. Dude! But mostly, I wanted more. There is a distinct ending, yes, but I was left wondering what happens next? And that’s a fantastic way to leave your audience.
