Chief Engineer Ted Dykstra directs this powerful play with clear passion and vision. Incredible talent, an impressive set, and a wild story come together to create this edge-of-your-seat adventure.
The more strange items they uncover, the more their views and memories of their father and their time in that house become questioned and questionable. Meanwhile, the in-laws to this family are trying to keep some semblance of sanity amidst growing accusations and horrifying discoveries, most of the time being the only voice of reason in a sea of delusion. Steve Lucas and Rebecca Morris pulled out all the stops for this production, creating an intricate set with several surprises along the way.
What I loved about the set and lighting was that it framed the action so perfectly; there was a little frame left around the edges of the stage, and with the vibrant lighting, the action felt almost surreal. The play begins with an eerie soundscape which sets the mood for the entire show; this buildup of cicadas and other swamp creatures create a cacophony of the sounds of the South which become the auditory ambiance throughout the production. An essential element of any living-room drama like Appropriate is an impressive cast of talented performers and this production is no exception.
The adult portion of the Lafayette family is portrayed by a powerhouse troupe of actors: Raquel Duffy helms the family as Toni. Duffy takes Toni from grieving to the edges of sanity and back with her heartbreakingly beautiful performance. Andy Trithardt plays the long-lost-youngest Frank, and his emotional journey in this role is beautiful to witness. He has a certain earnestness that makes you feel deeply for him.
Beckwith gives River this sweetness and kindness that makes me want to befriend her immediately. This cast had me so wildly invested in the lives of their characters I could have sat there all night watching more and more drama unfold.
