What I liked
Chris Valenti is a seasoned comedian — even his pre-show speech was almost a stand-up set! So the fact that he didn’t build all the short plays as comedy sets — despite the laughs he offered us — becomes a deliberate choice by a writer who decided to let his audience sit in that uncomfortable space we try so hard to avoid. Yes, there are plenty of moments of comedic relief — which also gave his talented actors the opportunity to show off their comedic chops and shine — but there are also plenty of cringe-worthy (and yet thoroughly enjoyable) moments that convey perhaps the essence of the plays. Chris is not only an incredibly talented, funny and smart writer, he’s also a writer who deeply cares about his audience and it shows. He knows exactly how to punch to become poignant but avoid being cruel or brutal. He moves effortlessly and with enviable ease across different genres, (I’m sure people will go away having different favorite scenes depending on personal taste), and yet the common thread in all his shorts is his deep affection towards what it means to be human and to co-exist in this world, and particularly in America today. As someone who believes that the political is deeply personal, who laughs in the face of adversity, refuses to take herself too seriously but also can’t turn away from the problems we face as a society, I found these five shorts encompassing my favorite elements both in art and in life. A masterclass in simple, effective, deep, honest and generous writing.
What I didn't like
Chris Valenti keeps raising the bar with every new production, and he doesn’t disappoint.
My overall impression
An entertaining and thought-provoking ride I definitely recommend!
