***** If you love intrigue, romance and family important topics, then you will be mesmerized by Rivendell Theatre’s World Premiere of “No Such Thing” written by Ensemble member Lisa Dillman. I am going to be quite careful in explaining what you will bear witness to as I would never want to spoil the secrets that are contained within. I am in hopes that others will do likewise.

The story revolves around Ren ( an amzing character brought to life by Susan Gosdick). Ren is a writer, middle-aged, who is seeking new ideas to write about and at the same time, sees her marriage becoming “old hat”, in spite of having a caring husband, Ted ( deftly handled by Matt De Caro). They have a daughter, Olivia ( played to perfection by Jessica Ervin). Olivia is a college student who has suffered some problems during her youth and Ren feels the need to smother  her rather than mother her.

Sharpley directed by Malkia Stampley on a very unique set designed by Lauren Nichols, the story is multi faceted and one must pay close attention as there are times we go back in time. One little slip and you could miss some of the important messages contained within. Ren, has gone online to a dating app in order to get some spice in her life. She has met a man who has done likewise and they have been having a torrid love affair. It is a unique one in that the two lovers know nothing about each other except the fantasy they are living. They meet ! They talk! They have sex! And then they go their own way until the next time. The lover is played by Josh Odor.

The last character in our story is Marilyn ( the lovely and funny Cheryl Hamada) who is Ren’s agent/manager. They have many discussions about Ren’s writing, her family and even more about her creativity and or lack of during a slow period for the writer.

Ren’s life becomes one of confusion between fact and fiction. What is real? Is her fantasy life what she truly wants? Does having a lover fill the supposed void she is feeling? There are a number of questions that I can’t get into with you in order to allow the secrets to stay where they belong. I will tell you that the first act ends with what many felt was a shocker. I for one, had a feeling that what happened would, but I am sure others were taken by surprise.

In the second act we get a little deeper into what transpires after the shock, and then we go back in time, and then again to current ,as the story truly unfolds ,and allows each character to cling to their beliefs and desires. Does the mother become invisible? Does the daughter become invisible? Do Ren and Olivia have a chance to co-exist? These are some of the many questions you will be asking yourself as the curtain comes down. Rivendell has a reputation as “It’s Women’s Work” and this play is the perfect one to start season 30.

Stampley has created something special on this very small intimate stage. The set is one that has sliding walls and furniture pieces that change the location instantly. The transitions will most likely get better as they do them at each performance, but Nichols has created a wonderful set. Lonnae Hickman’s props are terrific and the sound/music by Ethan Korvne just right. Madeleine Reid’s lighting was right on and the costumes (Evelyn Danner) are amazing. It seems DeCaro has far more changes than any other actor, but they all fit the premise of where he is or was,

I hope I did not give anything away so that you can go to Rivendell at 5779 N. Ridge Avenue ( just down the street from Senn High School) and see this amazing show. There are great moments of tension, love, family, passion and Dillman has created characters that are quite realistic.

 

“No Such Thing” will continue thru  Apr 27th with performances as follows: