The Rental

As a playwright I have to admit I was very impressed the way this play was written. Very smart and real. It dives very deep into people’s mind. ... full review

What a thought provoking story superbly told by two great actors. I was thoroughly captivated by the ebb and flow of the plot, and the two contradicting lifestyles each of the characters led. It greatly explored the stereotypes of sexual encounters and consent/respect within that realm. It had just the right amount of balance of funny and drama. I would definitely see it again!... full review

Found a flyer for this exclusive run. Best $10 I have ever spent. I loved walking into the theatre space and seeing Elise, played by Ali Astin, on stage prepping for the show. I felt as if I was a fly on her wall watching. Once the play began, I truly enjoyed the comedy and connection between Elise and Keith, played by Jake Corvino. Ali Astin’s acting really made me appreciate the complexity of a modern sexual encounter. Jakes nervousness and determination portrayed what any 21-year-old virgin would do. Ali and Jakes acting would not have been cohesive without the brilliant writing and direction of Ben Ubiñas. ... full review

Thanks to stellar writing, direction and strong performances, I found myself transfixed by the dynamic between these two characters and the smart and surprising shifts of perspective and interplay between role-playing and biting self-revelation. Writer Ben Ubiñas is not content with merely entertaining, but cleverly sets the audience up to challenge any assumptions they may have dared to make. One of the most thought-provoking hours on the stage I've seen in ages. I highly recommend this show. ... full review

I was drawn to The Rental because to the premise. As someone who creates and performs in shows that are erotic/sensual in nature, I was curious to see how The Rental would play out. I was happy about the unexpected twists that took place within the plot. I enjoyed the actors' dedication to their roles, especially that of the virgin. ... full review