What I liked
I really enjoyed Lucy Sartor’s performance as Allison –– she invests FULLY, commits to her performance, and is fucking hilarious and deeply human. Love her introducing herself with, “I teach ninth grade biology.”
Every cast member shone and read as very settled into their character.
And bravo on the set of bunk beds! I was impressed by the entire set design as well as the artistic construction of the entire world –– the town outside, the rest of the hostel, the character’s lives.
What I didn't like
(Spoiler) – The one thing I had a hard time with was a character falling out of a window. The actor absolutely killed it and owned it, and plot-wise, it’s a great turn, but it was hard to execute in the space.
My overall impression
“A Hostel Environment” is an intuitively structured ensemble comedy that chronciles an increasingly chaotic night in a hostel. The characters are excellent foils for one another and their subtly shifting alliances keep the interpersonal dynamics consistently fresh. This play is well-written, worldly, and intelligent, jesting lightly about politics and packed with twists and turns that amp up the drama and turmoil for each character.
