The Straights

See it if into a wonderful production of a seriously underdeveloped play about 3 queers on a road trip to visit their straightened-up friend

Don't see it if you expect a play to be more focused than random

Also The production is first-rate - the actors inhabit their characters wonderfully and the set goes through many creative changes. And yet, I was mostly disengaged, not responding to the surface-level jokes, mourning the squandered opportunities to build towards the ultimately-flat final explosion.

It seems the author chose to recreate a real-life feel. You know - real life, where editing is not possible, where key information is not in view, where there is no writer to create arcs. I kept wondering why the road trip seemed aimless, why subjecting the audience to inane moments while the proper build-up is not taking place. As a result of this misguided approach, late developments come out of nowhere and garner minimal effect. The actors did much, but could not substitute for the missing dramatic structure.... Read more Read less

See it if you want to see bright new voices in tackle some universal themes of belonging, friendship, and How to live with an open heart.

Don't see it if You can’t forgive some rookie mistakes

See it if Looking for a "downtown" type play. 2 hours no intermission. Has 4 female monologues that give each actor a chance to shine.

Don't see it if There are flaws but none big enough not to support this group of young earnest professionals

Also The writing is the strongest and weakest part of the play. Some scenes catch fire and others drag. It's a dialogue heavy show so it's easy to miss things and the lingo and "woke" lectures are trite.

Not sure if it was writing or the acting to fault but there was ZERO chemistry between Ari and Phoebe. Didn't believe either was attracted to the other. That said, the acting overall was solid. The character Nina is written to be so unlikeable yet the challenging task for the actor of winning over the audience is done so at the climax with an emotionally charged performance. Lisa Ramirez, who plays Teri, nearly steals the show as she puts on a master class in comedic timing in every scene she is in. Actors playing Clare and Mexico are also strong.

Direction, lighting, video design are all sharp.

A long video montage of the rehearsal process during a scene change is a waste of audiences time. Voiceover during acid trip is bizarre. Can't actors say lines? Kerouac's burn burn used no credt?... Read more Read less