Arizona Rain

Drama · nightmare lizards productions · Ages 16+ · United States of America

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Review by MICHAEL DINARDO

June 15, 2023 certified reviewer

What I liked

The side characters added a layer to the show that helped take it to another level. The distinct relationship dynamics the two main characters had with each one of them was clear, flushed out, and detailed. And the actors playing the various side characters definitely had fun making each one unique and expressive in their own ways. Also, shout out to the Costume Designer for the outfits, immediately made the vibe of each character clear upon entering from offstage.

The pacing was top notch. For a play that runs only 60 minutes, and took as many well-deserved moments to let plot points breathe, it still felt like the show had so much content that it had to be running longer.

What I didn't like

Some of the “action” taking place onstage during conversations felt like randomly staged busywork (folding a bedsheet and then tossing it crumpled to the side, making a cup of tea that had nothing in it). With the set design as is, there’s definitely more meaningful action that could be taken.

Would’ve liked to see more dynamics in the relationship between Crissy and Marcy. Felt that at times (and perhaps this was intentionally done in the writing), the staging and dynamic between the two felt repetitive and stagnant.

Want to say these are just nitpicky things, and should not detract from the fact that as a whole, the production and choices made are at an excellent quality already.

My overall impression

8.5/10 – The story was straightforward yet layered, the splicing of the main duo’s interactions by including side characters helped keep the pace and levity of the show together, and the show had a strong, cohesive set of themes from beginning to end. Dealing with identity, love, relationships, acceptance, regret, existentialism, religion, family, all wrapped up in a neat little bow of a play mainly between two people. For a one hour play, it felt like there was 90 minutes worth of content packed in there, in the best way possible.

Acting choices were all around great, set design was effective, lighting helped differentiate scenes, and sound design added a bit of additional humor. Highly recommend this show.

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