2023 Audience Reviews

Company: Ashen Armor Productions
Show: The Definition of Loss
Venue: Mixed Blood Theatre

A Brave and Memorable Story and Performance!

“The Definition of Loss” is a powerful and moving presentation of one person’s experience of grief. This 3-person play is definitely worth seeing, as the cast beautifully executes their roles in a convincing manner that draws the audience into the experience. Grief of any sort is a universal experience, yet very individual in its effects and expression. This play explores that theme in a way that audience members can relate to, regardless of what kind of loss they may have experienced. Loss in this play is conveyed through words, and even more so through the silence and movement of the “Also Han” character, whose dance conveyed more than words, and perhaps that which cannot even be put into words. I’m at a loss of words to say exactly what the definition of loss is, but based on this play, where there is a sort of kindly and somewhat-impish -- yet very intense -- inner version of Han that is recognized by the Mom, but not acknowledged by Han, the definition of loss would seem to include not only separation from that which is lost, but also from ourselves and part of who we were or are. This play easily could have been entitled “The Loss of Definition.” There is so much food for thought in this very emotional production. If you like a strong script that incorporates exceptional acting and impressive contemporary dance, this play is the one to see! It has some especially touching moments and memorable tear-inducing quotes (which I am so tempted to share here)! You’ll have to see the play for yourself to see what those are -- and do bring some friends for your post-play conversations! I very highly recommend this uniquely engaging, so well-performed, and very personal expression of “The Definition of Loss!”

Company: Hey Rube!
Show: Behemoth
Venue: Theatre in the Round

Alice and the Water Buffalo

Behemoth tells a bold story from the aspect of one character and her sister. It relies on flashbacks from the main sister’s memories, that include an influential event early in her life involving a water buffalo. Since some actors play more than one character in the first few scenes, it is a bit confusing as to who the other main characters are exactly. But that resolves itself as more of the story is revealed. The story manages to be told in a variety of different settings with very few props. All of the actors convincingly portray their characters, even when a few of them are also playing non-human characters -- who are very interesting and kind of fun to watch! There is a lot to unfold in this story-with-substance that moves right along and keeps one’s interest. It’s a serious story interspersed with humor and touching moments. Behemoth has something to say about the perceptions we hold and our relationships with others and ourselves. You’ll want to see how it ends. Behemoth certainly is worth seeing!