At The Flash (FringeNYC)

"When it is sufficiently insightful and surpassingly proficient, theater has the power to astound us. Such is the case with this one-man show, featuring five characters who were patrons of a gay bar. This is a story worthy of being told. It is theater inits purest form. David Leeper completely and convincingly becomes these characters. He makes us care about them and their concerns, and ultimately,their plights. It is an amazing spectacle, made moving and profound by his perfection and pacing." Full Review

"Though some of the character arcs go on a scene or two too long, Chandler and Leeper offer some stunningly fabulous quotes. As strong as the writing is, 'At the Flash' celebrates an extraordinary performer. David Leeper provided a seamless character exploration. Jumping time and character, Leeper's characterization was near flawless...Chandler and Leeper have written a beautifully rich story that will go down in history." Full Review

"David Leeper's extraordinary talent is on display not only when he embodies each individual character, but also when he rapidly cycles through all the characters in quick succession during one extraordinary monologue near the end of the show…David Leeper gives each of his characters a distinctive voice bringing them to life right before your eyes…’At The Flash’ gives you a glimpse into gay history when gay bars were one of the very few places those who were different could call home." Full Review

"Leeper’s voice and persona can change on a dime and are on exquisite display when he cycles through all the characters in quick succession during one killer of a monologue...There’s never a moment of unease in the storytelling with his careful guidance...If some, especially those familiar with plays about gay history, might find the script a bit lacking, David Leeper’s performance helps make up for this, and might well be a standout of Fringe." Full Review

"Leeper, who plays five characters in a gay bar over five decades in 'At The Flash,' is an impressive mimic...Leeper gives each of his characters a distinctive voice (and some memorable lines), and provides each a different carriage...This shows off Leeper’s skills as a quick-change performer. But it doesn’t mask his limitations as a playwright...These are static sketches rather than a drama about characters who grow or at least change." Full Review

"This play is a collection of unaware clichés which only perpetuate the one-dimensional ideas the media usually presents of LGBTQ people. The script is always patting itself on the back for being so pithy, when it’s merely reinforcing notions such as the '80s being all about careless sex, and lesbians falling in love at first sight. It’s good that he transitions so effortlessly from character to character, even as they spew trite lines or T-shirt quotes, because he remains a wonder to behold." Full Review

"The five caricatures brought to life are merely tired, gay stereotypes spouting every imaginable cliché and have no substance or dimension...Mr. Leeper fares much better as an actor than a playwright with an admirable solo performance...Unfortunately, this skilled performer cannot overcome the obstacles in the script he co-wrote. As it stands now, 'At The Flash' is out of date, antiquated in its structure and revelations." Full Review