What I liked
The actors really knew their characters and it felt like they had their individual background stories, as well as their history as a couple, locked away in their minds. All of this coupled with Emily Lappi’s directing and guidance made the relationship, characters and story all the more real and relatable. The conversation between Rachel and Brian regarding the passing away of one’s father was so powerful and I especially liked Katie Oliver’s delivery of her monologue (I don’t want to give too much away). These were my favorite moments of Morillo’s writing -along with the comedic bits in the beginning; aka Brian’s enlarged prostate. I also loved the dialogue when the two characters discuss what could happen in the future.
What I didn't like
Well, I cried A LOT at a couple points and my makeup smudged so that was annoying! But I don’t think that’s their fault….lol. Wear waterproof mascara for this show.
My overall impression
It’s a situation that most people unfortunately have to deal with in life: ending a relationship. But this is not a piece filled with animosity or one where the viewer becomes depressed. It’s not the usual story of a break up and in this case the couple has already broken up, for one very specific reason and then decide to spend one last amazing night together. But of course, the night does not go as planned. Matt Morillo’s piece begins with many funny, light moments that allow you to follow Rachel and Brian into the night and eventually learn about their past and who they are individually (kudos to the actors; this is tough to accomplish in just 55 minutes). Katie Oliver and Dingani Beza both deliver solid performances as Rachel and Brian; not a line was missed nor blocking mis-stepped (or if it was the audience couldn’t tell). Emily Lappi’s directing is smooth and works in the best interest of the actors; it’s as if she has known these two characters for as long as they have known each other.
