What I liked
Despite how ambitious the concepts were in this play, the script has a very focused theme that is clear throughout.
The play’s looping gimmick didn’t overstay its welcome and had a huge impact on how the story was presented. This was definitely one of the most creative and profound uses of that idea I’ve seen in a play thus far.
What I didn't like
I wish there was a bit more substance to the HP Lovecraft bits (other than the last one). I enjoyed them and what they were conveying each time they showed up, but I did feel like they were less interesting than the more normal skits with Casey.
My overall impression
Coffee, Tea, and Gin is a fascinating thought experiment on the dissonance of values between authors and audiences on two major literature giants. (that coincidentally shares the initials H.P.) Most fiction is an interpretation of an author’s deep-seated ramblings made with the hopes that those who engage with it will connect to that discussion in some way. Casey’s script revels in his own rambling, making it 100% clear what stances, issues, and conclusions he has as a conflicted consumer of Lovecraft’s work. It’s a testament to Casey’s artistic and interpretative skill that he could create a story that stays true to Lovecraftian presentation while covering subjects that should be very unrelated. It’s by far, the most interesting and high-concept Fringe play I’ve seen all month.
