The Drifts Live

Thom is such an engaging performer, he just reels you in and won't let go! I was swept away by his energy, passion, and incredible storytelling. His characters are at once hilarious and heartbreaking. Wow.... full review

Really interesting show that explores gender identity and gender roles in a small Arkansas town. The four characters are unusual and surprising; the stories are raw and honest. And the writer/performer transcends the typical one-man-show schtick to tell the stories in a very physical, dynamic, visceral, funny, humble and real way, giving each character respect and a life that seems to exist outside of the actor's portrayal.... full review

Committed, energized, physical and riveting performance. Deeply emotional, rich and humorous. Fascinating and well delineated characters. A journey into lives and places we don't hear much about. Beautiful language, very alive, specific, visceral. This piece gives voice to the outsider and in this we find our common humanity and connection.... full review

Mr. Vernon has some complex material and is a genius. His acting ability is unrivaled. I'll admit that I had trouble keeping track of the different characters, but I was so enthralled just watching Mr. Vernon work. The sound effects were a nice touch. My favorite parts of the show were when Mr. Vernon became animated and drew the audience in. Loved it!... full review

A very challenging piece. I must admit, at first I was thrown off-balance by the way the piece simply launches into its narrative with no explanation. We as the audience are left to fend for ourselves. But as things become clearer and narrative patterns are defined, the world begins to take root and the characters take shape. Their voices are stricken and desperate and dangerously poetic. And Thom embodies them with fluidity and a muscular grace. There is nothing cliche about this piece of theatre. Nor is there anything easy about it. But it has a raw power that will bowl you over by sheer force of will. Answers come haltingly while questions fly with fury. Heart-ache, desperation and intense longing for something greater run ... full review

An amazing one-man performance by actor and author Thom Vernon, as he embodies four tragic and hilarious characters in a small Arkansas town, as they fight for their futures.... full review