My overall impression
Dorothy Parker’s voice comes to life in Adam Weissman’s theatrical adaptation, “Might as Well Live: Stories by Dorothy Parker.” Her sharp tongue and wit are present in each of the four scenes, and the palpable undercurrent of pathos puts on display the bittersweet inconsistencies of being in love. Anyone who has been in love will understand that universal juxtaposition of joy and pain.
It’s particularly evident in the play’s first story, “The Lovely Leave,” which features the wonderful new talents, Bailey Wilson and Paul Stanko. It’s funny, and it’s sad. Most of all, it’s an intimate look into the lives of two rich and complex people.
The performances from the entire cast are stellar from top to bottom. Look out for Bret VandenBos and Aly Fainberg’s laugh-out-loud cautionary tale of the dangers of blackout drinking, and Paget Kagey’s simmering contempt in the final story, “The Game.”
All in all, this is a really wonderful show. Get out and go see it now.
