What I liked
I loved the use of the projector, overhead, and the voice of his ex. There are some really great moments where Hal expertly integrates the projector behind him, and at the same time talks with his ex who keeps interrupting.
What I didn't like
I would say that technically there could be some tightening. I realize we saw an early performance, but with everything going on in the show, it really hinges on the seamlessness of the media integration. And I think it just needs some more polishing. At the same time, I also felt his ex’s death felt a little out of place. I realize it happened and is a part of Hal’s story, but amidst what we were watching and what Hal was discovering, it felt almost like it didn’t truly belong where it showed up. Not sure if that’s something that can be adjusted, since we’re dealing with real life, but it’s just an observation. Either way, I enjoyed the piece a lot. Especially the overall message that anxiety is a motivator.
My overall impression
Not knowing anything about this show, I was very pleasantly surprised. Right off the bat we are taken aback by Hal’s honesty and vulnerability. He’s not only hilarious, but in your face, brutally honest. It’s a real fascinating story to watch and Hal, through the direction of Ralph, takes us on this very personal story as we watch him discover himself. There’s lovely moments of calm, mixed with over the top moments of anxiety. It’s lovely.
