What I liked
SPOILER ALERTS:
The play opens with the identities of none of the characters being revealed an this quickly becomes a fun game of cat-and-mouse with the audience. The entire time, I was listening in for any hints or clues on who each person was. I was able to guess ONE, but what Biblical satire doesn’t have Judas Iscariot?
The script was fresh with little nods to other pieces: “Dante’s Inferno” (before they literally mention it in the script), “The Last Days of Judas Iscariot”, amongst many others. The playwright does a phenomenal job at making us relate to each of these historic ‘traitors’ and goes so far as to have us pity the devil.
The ensemble work was exceptional. With moments breaking the world and creating ‘flashbacks’, the entire cast moved as a cohesive unit. Personal favorites were Eve, Brutus, and Satan himself.
This was the playwright’s FIRST PLAY? F*** ME.
What I didn't like
SPOILER ALERTS AND SEVERE NITPICKING:
All of these are recommendations rather than things that NEED to be adjusted. Regardless, I find this work INCREDIBLY strong and see this play going incredibly far:
- Each character has a monologue or a moment. Although they are very informative, heartfelt, and well-written, it can get repetitive and rhythmic. More interjections, dialogue between characters, or simple trimming down would fix this easily.
- Once the apple was introduced, it became clear what the ending was going to be (as far as who stayed behind). That was predictable, however, the final scene and picture with Satan and the ‘remaining traitor’ was beautiful and necessary for the full show’s arch.
- I don’t believe that Satan’s monologue stating that each character represented one of the Seven Deadly Sins was necessary. Symbolism is a powerful thing and some things should be left unsaid. This is one of those moments where I think less is more.
Again, this is just me NITPICKING. I absolutely loved the subject matter, the message, the cast, the characters, and the writing. 10/10. One of the best at Fringe.
My overall impression
This piece explores the meaning of faith, self-forgiveness, pride, damnation, and everything in-between! For Biblical fanatics and atheists alike, this is one of the best plays that this year’s Fringe has to offer! Everyone needs to see this so I can rave to them more about this show, but I don’t want to post any spoilers (without a warning, of course)!
