My overall impression
Theatre Critic from Stage and Cinema here. Cynthia Brinkman is an extremely engaging and endearing actress who successfully manages to create 3 generations of Latina women and the rite-of-passage involving a first kiss. Brinkman also wrote the piece, which is based on authentic entries in journals from her mother and grandmother. The scenes work particularly well, and Brinkman’s expressions are priceless. Her comedy is most organic and never forced.
Personally, I am not a huge fan of solo shows that have characters who break the fourth wall; it’s just a preference. I believe the show would be even stronger if Brinkman did not ask us if we know what certain words are in Spanish, but rather let the words speak for themselves in the scenes. She is adept enough at creating characters and deftly moving from one to the other, so what is the purpose of talking to the crowd?
As it stands, however, EVOLUTION OF A KISS is entertaining and fun; it even conjured up my own memories of my awkward teenage years (are there any other kind?)
I must state that there is a genuineness about Brinkman – an openness and goodness – that shines through in her performance. She appears to be a lovely and gracious lady – you will not be sorry to have spent time with her.
