Villain - An American Story

ensemble theatre · from the gut creations · Ages 13+ · United States of America

world premiere
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BONNIE SLUDIKOFF certified reviewer June 03, 2018
"Highly recommended" doesn't feel like a positive enough thing to say here. I look forward to seeing this show at the Geffen or the Mark Taper in a few years when someone with money gets the privilege to produce it. It's a bigger piece than this space really allows it to be, but they make it work. That said, it's a privilege to get to see these incredible actors this up-close and personal. This cast is the real deal. I can't even list the standout performers because I feel bad not acknowledging every single person- some really delicious scenes were written for every main character of this spectacular ensemble cast and every cast member lived up to the challenge. I suspect this show will become one that actors use for auditions and sc... full review
TYLER SHEPHERD uncertified reviewer June 04, 2018
Villain is the type of show that transcends entertainment. From the very first sounds in the play, you no longer feel like you’re just watching a show but rather partaking in a real experience. Society has a tendency to sensationalize issues to the point that we become desensitized to serious and tragic epidemics. Villain successfully strips away all the distractions and truly gets to the heart of America’s all too familiar problem and often forgotten sentiment; which is that human beings, not just racial statistics, are involved in these tragic police shootings. The play’s courage to tackle such a polarizing issue is admirable within itself, but then to witness how thoughtfully the story is executed is even more inspiring. Going beyond ... full review
FRANCESCA S JAMES uncertified reviewer June 04, 2018
I wasn't quite certain what to expect from a play which speaks on a very common topic these days. I would never have expected the level of creativity displayed in "Villain". The writing was superb. It covers thoughts and emotions from a depth of understanding usually overlooked. Bravo to the writers, director and each and every actor. The performances were stand out by each one. However, my tears began to flow the moment the mother began her performance in silence. It was riveting.... full review
ANONYMOUS certified reviewer June 10, 2018
Great play, very timely!... full review
ANONYMOUS certified reviewer June 11, 2018
My overall impression... An amazing message of the "boys in blue" stereotyping young black males with the assumption of ALL black men are in a gang or up to no good. In my opinion, the VILLAIN is individual ignorance in judging someone because of the color of their skin. Impressive Play...... full review
ANONYMOUS certified reviewer June 04, 2018
I bought the tickets for a friend and guest. They loved it!... full review
ANONYMOUS uncertified reviewer June 04, 2018
It was well written, acted and directed. It was a very powerful piece dealing with challenges of the day!... full review
ANONYMOUS certified reviewer June 04, 2018
A powerful and poignant piece. Speaks to the current climate and addresses the ripple effect of officer involved shootings on both sides of the "story".... full review
HEATHER CASE certified reviewer June 04, 2018
Victim is a riveting, intriguing roller coaster ride that pulls you in a doesn’t let you go. The writing, acting and directing are superlative. I expect Victim will go on to bigger venues. It’s that good. Don’t miss it. ... full review
NATHANIEL BEAVER uncertified reviewer June 05, 2018
This was a very powerful and political drama. The story is very relevant in current events. I think the actors did a good job of portraying their characters. I liked the use of the one living room as a shared space where both scenes took place to show all sides of the story. ... full review