What I liked
I love the simple staging and lighting. It allowed for Dani to really take us into Bill’s world by not complicating the space. I also loved how we almost never heard the other characters speak. It was only Bill addressing them and allowing us to fill in the gaps. It was truly beautiful work.
What I didn't like
The only improvement would have been more performances!! I realize that as a scholarship show, it was only allowed 3 shows, but I feel that is not enough for the festival to truly understand the incredible work that is seen here.
My overall impression
From the moment we walked into the space, I knew this would be an interesting show. What appeared to be a Western campsite set turned out to be the inside of a jail cell. And as Dani, in the role of Bill, began to talk to the audience as though we were fellow prisoners, the show just took off. From the moment she locked eyes with the audience and began addressing us, I was hooked. Her writing and performance were not only on point, but brilliant to the last letter. She has the incredible knowledge and understanding of the character to such a degree that she effortlessly disappeared into Bill. And let’s not forget that Dani directed herself in this piece. And she wrote it. Not only does this piece feel personal, but vulnerable at the same time. You get a sense that Dani knows Bill and truly understands what his final moments must have been like.
This piece is a must see for anyone at Fringe. Let’s just hope it gets extended.
