Powerful, provocative and thought provoking is how I will describe SOVERNEIGN BODY at the Road Theatre in North Hollywood. This world premiere play is a reminder of why live theatre can not be replaced by film or TV. I won't describe the twists and turns of the story line but the play is about a wife and mother of two grown daughters welcoming an uninvited Thanksgiving dinner guest and the family's life is forever challenged. This is an epic story of a family's journey to healing.
(From Farl Left to Right) Hannah Mae Sturges, Taylor Gilbert, Bryna Weiss and Dani Stephens star in the Road Theatre's World Premiere production of SOVEREIGN BODY, by Emilie Beck and directed by Scott Alan Smith.
THE ROAD THEATRE COMPANY and Taylor Gilbert, Founder/Artistic Director together with Sam Anderson, Artistic Director, have produced a world premiere play that I encourage everyone to see. SOVEREIGN BODY was masterfully written by Emilie Beck. This playwright has written a play that will touch you in very personal ways and draw you into the family's joys, hardships and discoveries.
Being in the district for 12 years, I have seem few playwrights that have written such a tender and riveting drama. The play was brilliantly directed by SCOTT ALAN SMITH, the Associate Artistic Director at the Road Theatre Company. He directed the play with honesty and playfulness, with a gripping hold on plot changes making this complicated story unfold seamlessly.
Now what do I say about the cast? "BRAVO"
Anna, played by Taylor Gilbert, was outstanding. She held me spellbound throughout her transformations. This was an extremely difficult role to play but her talents shined brightly. Any show that Taylor is in I will see.
Vivian, played by Bryna Weiss, did a solid performance of the "peace maker" of the family. She was real and memorable as Anna's mom.
Kevin McCorkle played Tal, the artist husband whose spirit and tenacity brought the story home.
Jack Millard played The Man, this evil, sexy "bad boy" which only a seasoned, talented actor could pull off.
John Cragen played Ben, a man trying to find himself in between his wife's and family's opposing criteria. He did the role justice.
Danielle Stephens was Callie, a 20-year-old trying to find her own identity. She did a good job because she brought back memories of my daughters.
Hannah Mae Sturges played Evie, a sweet, scientific daughter trying to find her place within the family. She was memorable.
Anna Carini played a "right wing" wife of Ben who did not fit in this liberal, non-religious family. Maybe folks won't agree with her beliefs but she charmed the audience with kindness.
Taylor Gilbert (Center Front) stars with (back row from left to right) Hannah Mae Sturges, Jack Millard and Dani Stephens in the Road Theatre's World Premiere production of SOVEREIGN BODY, by Emilie Beck and directed by Scott Alan Smith.
I must mention the award-winning design team that laid a superior foundation for the show. Applause to the Scenic Designer/ Stephen Gifford, Costume Designer/Jocelyn Hublau. Lighting Designer/Derrick McDaniel with Sound Design by David B. Marling. Also, a first class job were the Film Segments directed by Scott Alan Smith and Darryl Johnson with Prop Design by TJ McNeill and Fight Choreography by Matt Glave. Original Music composed by Drew Price fed the soul.
SOVEREIGN BODY runs through Saturday, May 24 at the Historic Lankershim Arts Center, 5108 Lankershim Blvd. in North Hollywood, CA.
Performances are Fridays and Saturdays at 8pm; Sundays at 2pm. Ticket prices are $34.00; Previews are $15. Economic Stimulus tickets are $10 on Sunday, April 6 at 2pm (subject to availability). Special group rates available for parties of 8 or more. For tickets, please call 866-811-4111 for details or visit www.RoadTheatre.org to purchase tickets online or to view complete schedule.
PHOTO CREDIT: John Lorenz
