John Perrin Flynn, artistic director for Rogue Machine Theatre, directs David Rambo's "A Good Guy" at the tiny Henry Murray Stage up the steps (with a new hand rail!!) through "The Office" door at The Matrix Theatre on Melrose in Hollywood.Designer of this pre-show space should be credited It helps to set the scene for the play.
In a previous production with a slightly similar bent, Rogue Machine took us into the dark lair of Harris and Kleibold in Denver: Columbine: twenty five years ago. RMT often brings us to a political conundrum that may ask more questions that some folks can answer. The title of this play refers to an often repeated aphorism that will come to mind when you see this show.
And.. see it: you must.
Rambo points us to our own conclusions, factoring in biases and even essential political beliefs whether we like it or not. He discusses his own writing style as the story evolves, leaving some space for personal reflection. The wake of the most recent school shooting ten days ago in Georgia, emphasizes the importance of this issue.The issue is undeniable.
Guns.
 |
| Wayne T. Carr, Evangeline Edwards, Suzen Baraka |
At rise, we meet Anna Pope (Evangeline Edwards). Anna is the eye of the storm with the fury and flurry of The Second Amendment in the balance. It becomes the task of the audience to explore the issue and come to grips with it. Ms Edwards vibrantly presents the first scene and sets the pace. It is fast. It is intense. The undercurrent of death is palpable. So many deaths.
Diversity casting and double doubling challenges the audience to almost participate as the scenes change while one actor or another announces the Time and Place. Suzen Baraka as Second Detective, Language Arts, Ms. Wizner, District Superintendent, Lawyer fills the bill with minimal costume changes, most of which we watch as the play progresses.
Wayne T. Carr as Detective, History, Principal Douglas Blatchley, Michael, Instructor may have the toughest job switching from an interrogating detective to Anna's husband, Michael, returned from extended service in Syria. Motive for this subplot asks questions.
Jan Munroe's tight set serves Flynn's direction well.
Rambo's play follows it's own lead taking us from present day to days past to the events that serve as the canvas for A Good Guy's theme. The evolution of the plot calls for the audience to suspend disbelief in a major way because of the close proximity to the action. Flynn and company meet the challenge.
Anna's personal arc leaves us with some questions that bring her situation to... at last... fmeditating in a pubic park. The denument introduces us to Logan Leonardo Arditty as The Student. The St udent's reputation has preceded him. The playwright presents a dramatic twist that allows for Anna to fulfill her calling: to teach.
Flynn's direction for this tiny space draws us in with deep feeling. I'd quibble with one scene, but won't. When you go to see this show, please wear your critical thinking cap to ask what you might do if faced with an unimaginable situation.
Cast and Crew
Founding Artistic Direct......John Perrin Flynn
Artistic Director............Guillermo Cienfuegos
Co-Artistic Director...................................Elina de Santos
Executive Director......................................Justin Okin
Public Relations....................Judith Borne
General Manager.....................Ramón Valdez
Production Manag....Rachel Ann Manheimer
Social Media..............................Ruth Fowler
Company Manager....................Scott Sheldon
Box Office Manager..................................Marsha Henry
Resident Casting Director......................Victoria Hoffman
“A Good Guy”
Written by David Rambo
Directed by John Perrin Flynn
Executive Producer: Jeanne Craig
Produced by Jennifer Sorenson, Guillermo Cienfuegos
A Rogue Machine Production
Recommended for ages 14+
WHERE: Rogue Machine (Upstairs on the HenryMurray Stage in the Matrix Theatre)
7657 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046
(Street parking)
WHEN: Previews at 8pm September 11, 12
Opening at 5pm on Saturday, September 14
8pm Fridays & Mondays; 5pm Saturdays; 7pm Sundays
(No Performance on Friday, September 20)
Closing: October 13, 2024
HOW: For reservations call 855-585-5185 or https://www.roguemachinetheatre.org
HOW MUCH: Previews $25
Tickets are $45 (Students $25 / Seniors $35)
Show4Less Fridays: Sept 27 ($15+), Oct 4, 11 ($20)
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