***** Try to imagine being in the “fly on the wall” for an audition. You are watching a master of theater interviewing/auditioning an actress who is asked to bare her soul in order to become a part of this famous theatrical company. Think about “A Chorus Line” and what Zach put these dancers through, but instead of a chorus, it is one individual who has, in her mind, “paid her dues” and is ready to become the star she was meant to be. In a way, that is what” Being Seen”, now in its Chicago premiere at The Den Theatre Building (The Den Theatre )  1329-1333 N. Milwaukee Chicago ( second floor Crosby stage). This tight work written and directed by Richard Gustin is 90 minutes of pure theater brought to life by two actors who get deep into the characters they are bringing to life.

This captivating, fast-paced comedy by  Gustin looks at launching a “fresh start.” An actor ( an amazing and powerful character played to perfection by Kelly Anne Clark) answers the audition notice of a highly acclaimed director ( Will Clinger truly nails this character) and finds herself navigating his outlandish creative process. This tour de force comedy asks the question: “What would you do for a dream?” The two actors work well together, playing off the emotions of each with great ease. It appears to be happening as we watch, not a play, but reality.

The venue is a small square box of a theater with seating on three sides, a steel beam/pole in the center of the stage area and a single chair. The back wall is black and that my friend is it. There is nothing else. The only props are costume items and water bottles and the chair gets moved several times. For most of the 90 minutes, those sitting in the area that faces the plain black wall do not see Clinger, but are keenly aware of his presence. I for one could feel him as he moved about behind me as he spoke with the actress. The workload truly is carried by Clark, who is powerful and highly energetic. I have seen her in other area productions, and while I always thought she was talented, in this role she exceeded my expectations.

Clinger, who many of us know from his days on local TV with “Wild Chicago” and many other comic roles, proves that his talent is greater than we had seen in the past. The play itself is strong with clever dialogue and I am sure its creator, in directing this piece made sure that what he felt when writing it was expressed in the bringing it to life. IT WORKED!

There are not many tech aspects to speak about. Rachel Lambert’s costumes were fitting and the choice of pre-show music (Aviva Jaye, Robbie Ellis and Clarence Fraher) works.

Each moment of the play is of great importance as the two characters wrestle with each other, each trying to find a victory for themselves. There are some twists and turns that I will not divulge as they are wonderful surprises. There is never a dull moment in this play/production and you will never find yourself looking at your watch to see how much time is left. This is a strong and mesmerizing script that will have you on the edge of your seat. Put it on your MUST SEE list.

“Being Seen” will continue Thru – Jul 2,  with performances as follows:

Wednesdays:8:00pm

Thursdays:8:00pm