[rating=3] There are times we must take a step back and look at a theatrical production through the eyes of others. Often we forget our meaning, which in reality is to assist theater audiences in making the investment in buying a ticket to see a play. Many base this choice on what they read, which is from our prospective, so to be fair, I try to “take a step back” and try to see the play as I might see it under other than my circumstances. Audrey Cefaly’s “The Gulf”, now on the stage of Theater Wit , is a play that caused me to do this.
First of all, it takes place somewhere in the Alabama Delta. What would I know about that? It involves a Lesbian couple, and while it shows that they endure the same problems as any other couple, none of their struggles comes close to anything in my life. So, I sat back, paid very close attention, and watched a story unfold before my eyes. In the 85 minutes ( no intermission), I watched two women who have been in a relationship for six years deal with many subjects that will either give the future a positive or negative action.
Let me set the tone of the evening for you. When entering the theater at Wit ( number 2) you will see that it has been re-configured to be arena (in-the-round) style. Smack dab in the center, a fishing boat surrounded by buckets mostly filled with water to represent the Delta they are on. On the boat are two women. Betty ( Deanna Myers) who we learn is a barkeep struggling to find a future and education to better her station in life, and with her, fishing and casting is Kendra (Kelli Simpkins) who we learn is satisfied with her life as it is. A menial job and lots of time for fishing. This appears to be a sunny outing. Perhaps even a day of soul searching as they discuss new starts for both and getting more out of life than what they have.
Tensions mount quickly as they talk about infidelities, life choices and life struggles. During these discussions we also see them kiss and hug , showing the deep feelings and sexual lust they have for each other. But this is not the time and place. Each has an agenda and each wants to make sure that the other sees their point. As the day goes, so does the boat’s motor, leaving them somewhat stranded. Tempers flare even more and Kendra having her fill throws Betty off the boat into the icy waters of the Delta. This is where I stop telling you about the story! I never like to give away the ending, so I will leave it at this point. I will tell you that both of these actresses are terrific and one can see the chemistry between the two characters they are portraying.
The story has many tense moments. These women are faced with having to recognize the truths of their lives and share their feelings with the other. At the same time, neither wants to give in to the other! You will either love them or hate them! You will either take one side over the other or disagree with both.
Directed by Megan Carney with intimacy /fight choreography by Gaby Labotka assisted by Kayla Menz), there is some great tension and if you are in the first row you could get dampened, or even worse, an oar tossed your way. We came very close. The set (Joe Schermoly) is clever and the use of the theater wonderful. The boat is on a turntable so we get views form different angles. The sound (Robert Hornbostel) and lighting (Rachel Levy) terrific and the props and costumes by Caitlin McCrathy dynamite.
“The Gulf” will continue thru February 15th with performances as follows:
Thursdays 7:30 p.m.
Fridays 7:30 p.m.
Saturdays 7:30 p.m.
Sundays 3 p.m.
Tickets are $32 OPEN SEATING and can be purchased at the box office at Theater Wit 1229 West Belmont Avenue, by calling 773-975-8150 or online at www.Aboutfacetheatre.com
Discounts are available for seniors, students and veterans
To see what others are saying, visit www.theatreinchicago.com, go to Review Round-Up and click at “The Gulf”.
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