What I liked
The script of this play was taut, the stage movement evocative, the acting superb, and the musical interludes to die for— I mean, how many times do you get to see a cockroach channel Elvis?
I loved that one of the characters quoted Cervantes. I loved how the show explored the topic of hanging on to your dreams…how much pain do you endure before you say, “Enough, already?” I’m sure many of the audience grapple with this on a regular basis — I know I do.
What I didn't like
There was nothing I didn’t like.
My overall impression
A cockroach I wrote a funny song about once got me a spot on the Disney Channel. So I have to admit I’m prejudiced. Even so, like Kafka before me, I anthropomorphized the insect. In this play, the cockroach retains his roachiness in thought and deed. He seems to veritably scurry across the stage, and I’m convinced if a cockroach could talk, he’d sound exactly like Demetris Hartman. He is the voice of reason to Wayne, played with pathos by Mark Binet, the more hapless of the hapless LA couple trying to make it. Jay Lawrence Kiman as Bob, the music promoter, embodies evil incarnate as he attempts to seduce Tea, the female singer of the couple, played by beautiful songstress Kate Poisson.
This play was riveting from start to finish. There is only one show left, although I’m hoping it will have an extended run. Do not miss it. And bring a little treat for the roach— he’s starving!
