Catalyst (FringeNYC)
About the show
Part of FringeNYC: Amidst society on the brink of meltdown, six strangers face the final hours. With stirring spoken word, music, and imagery, Catalyst questions, will the six survive each other long enough to build a new world for what remains of humanity. More…
Categories: Drama, Spoken Word/Poetry, National. From 2050 Legacy. Written by Aisha Jordan and Rafael Jordan Scriptwriters, Ensemble Members Poetry authors. Directed by Jana Lynne Umipig. Choreographed by Jana Lynne Umipig.
"Scenes are strangely paced and slow, with long silent pauses that do not serve the urgency of the circumstances. Director Jana Lynne Umipig seems to have missed an opportunity to create a real sense of tension, undercutting moments of emotional height with long, tentative exchanges…Few of the subjects get plumbed with real depth…There are many beautiful moments in 'Catalyst,' but it feels like they would be more poignant if the overall show were edited down." Full Review
See it if You enjoy non-traditional storytelling, spoken word poetry, stepping, rap, singing and stories about minorities/people of color.
Don't see it if Alarms frighten you. You enjoy traditional theater. If you don't enjoy spoken word, this isn't the show for you, though thats the best part.
See it if you want a diverse young cast made of true New Yorkers who give a glimpse of unrepresented perspectives and perform rap/poetry well.
Don't see it if you are bothered by many scene/staging changes, poor acting, and lack of focus. I give it a C grade.
See it if You like mixed forms of performance. Interweaved into a play.
Don't see it if You are looking for a normal dull script read of a flat play.
See it if You like socially conscious theater and the watchmen. Performance poetry.
Don't see it if Theater about current events. Funny show's.
See it if You enjoy theatre that tackles provoking issues in new and creative ways!
Don't see it if You aren't open to thought provoking ideas or new storytelling.
See it if You like social justice empowered theater. Multicultural art. Non-traditional theater. Hip-hop culture.
Don't see it if You can only listen to chamber music.