What I liked
The strong performances, walking around Hollywood through the lens of the Unreal City, the references to other T.S. Elliot works. If there was a single moment that sold me on the experience, it was when Mungo asked if we had any questions. I posed my question, and he responded without any hesitancy in what sounded like perfect T.S. Elliot verse (I do not know if what he was saying was straight from T.S. Elliot or if what he improvised just managed to fit the tone and rhyme scheme of the rest of the piece, but either way – it was amazing).
What I didn't like
I saw one of the first performances, and at my performance there were some technical and timing issues that I’m sure this highly capable creative team is aware of and will have fixed by their next performance!
minor SPOILER – specifically, I think audiences need more time for the final challenge before the show is over.
My overall impression
I cannot imagine how much work and coordination must have gone into producing this show. Audience members are transported to another time (though it is not entirely clear which time that is) and will travel to many different locations (wear walkable shoes!). Each audience member will have a unique experience, as you can choose to follow any of the many cast members through their story. All the cast members I interacted with (Lyle Friedrichs and the actor who played Mungo in particular) were excellent. Overall, the show leaves you with more questions than answers. This is not a bad thing. The world is unapologetically original and complex. After the show, we sat with other audience members for a solid hour discussing our experience. Bravo to all involved!
