Toronto Playwright Michael Ross Albert's first Toronto production of his acclaimed play hits some great notes. Staged in a gallery, surrounded by smashed artwork, the production immerses the audience in the world of the play immediately. Starting the dialogue snappily, we are brought along on the journey of these friends and their tumultuous relationship filled with pride, envy, and a bit of spitfire. The snappy dialogue and searing pace set up for a great release as the major dramatic crux is revealed, allowing the characters to spin out as they reel from this information.
The performances were strong at moments, but also at times felt rushed; there was a sense of uneven direction which was to the detriment of our engagement with the story as some text was glossed over. Each performer alternately had fantastic moments, and weaker ones, which was a touch frustrating. Nonetheless, the performers got some great laughs out of the audience, and we felt a distinct voice from each.
Found spaces can be a challenge, and I felt the direction used the space well, although there were some lighting choices toward the end which limited the full engagement with the space and the choice of staging it in such a manner.
This has been a hot ticket already, and with good reason; definitely worth grabbing an advance ticket for the small space!