Villain - An American Story

Extremely tedious script. Lots of hand wringing and angst. I was unsure why we were so focused on these boring white people. It gave no new insight into the wave of police brutality, racism and shootings in America and instead came across as a pretty pedestrian recap of many incidents seen through the white gaze. The white characters were stereotypes. The black characters seemed to do little but potter around stage with about 70% less lines.... full review

Riveting from the first moment. Incredible writing, not one fluff line. Outstanding performances from every actor. Every detail in their performances, just perfection! The set is so creative (without giving anything away). It was deep, painful, BUT I was grateful to see this story told. Needs to be told. This play is going to go the distance! In another setting--a talk back every night. And opportunities for action.... full review

I thought the show was absolutely incredible across the board. The execution from the cast and the set worked to show the two sides of how one incident can tear apart and change the lives of families drastically. ... full review

I was blown away. From the tense opening scene between characters Grace (Kailena Mai) and Evelyn Thompson (Shaw Purnell) until the last, heart wrenching monologue, I was hooked. The fresh writing, great direction and talented cast told this story in an authentic and honest voice. A very human voice, with all of the fear, potential, hope, and tragedy that that implies. ... full review

One of the best shows of this year's Fringe. Powerful, moving, thought-provoking. Unbelievable direction and performances. Writing so seamless it feels like you're in these living rooms.... full review

A poignant look at our American Culture and what we do to survive and asks the question -- who is really the villain? ... full review

Villain was indeed an American story- a white cop shoots an unarmed black kid. A story we know all too well. As much knowledge on the topic as you can have, there’s still no way to prepare yourself for when it happens to you. One of the messages that they put forward so well with this play was that it’s not all sunshine and rainbows on the shooter’s end. We rarely get a look into the officers’ backstories and it was very interesting to see the grief behind the scenes in contrast to what we’re used to- sad family members of the victim and angry protesters that want to change the way things are. The root of the entire problem is wrongful suspicion- and they nailed it. ... full review

It left me craving a deeper story. I didn’t walk away learning anything new or feeling anything different.... full review

Well-written, timely story, perfectly executed by a talented cast.... full review

Entirely enrapturing as a story about Police Brutality is muddled with humanity as none of the "safe" routes to unpacking this topic are taking, allowing for an experience which will rouse you for the entire duration of the play. ... full review