The Arsonist of Venice

What I liked

The narrative of the play was often compelling. The relationship between the arsonist and Joe was really interesting and complex. It was also interesting that the arsonist was adopted by an Iranian family who came to L.A. to escape the oppression of the post-Shah regime. The final scene was really compelling, though I wish a little more hint of what was to come in that scene was indicated earlier in the play.

What I didn't like

The relationship between the arsonist and his girlfriend was tiresome. I didn’t care about her, I didn’t care about their relationship. I would suggest the author eliminate that character, or reduce her role in the play. In addition, the actress who played the girlfriend was not particularly skilled; I suspect with more training, she will be a solid actress. From a writing standpoint, I would encourage the writer to look for cuts, to look for ways to keep the action tight. Also, when the character Joe says he “needs” his adopted brother the arsonist, it did not feel genuine to me. I think it would have been more genuine during one of the most dramatic bits in the play when the arsonist brings back a painful memory of Joe’s biological brother. I also think that the text could have hinted more at what the arsonist planned with his own father. From a director’s standpoint, I would move the action faster. The pace is sometimes slow. And the director should make sure that ALL the actors are heard – there is no excuse for having to strain to hear some lines in an intimate space.

My overall impression

There was a lot about Arsonist to praise, but overall, I think it could be a stronger work with just a few revisions.