A formulaic but moving story about a demanding Korean immigrant father and the ways his two almost-grown sons cope with and rebel against him while coming to terms with their own identity. While on a road trip from Arizona to Durango, Colorado revelations about each character are surfaced somewhat predictably in the highly tense atmosphere of the family car. The writing sometimes feels realistic, especially during all-too-recognizable tropes of family conflicts, but all-too-often falls into cliché about overachieving first-generation kids and the parents who push them too hard. What the show lacks in originality, however, it makes up for in moments of humor and real pathos when the dialogue does connect, with a few truly powerful interactions that make up for the rest. Great acting all around, with a particularly convincing Dawn Wang as the rebellious, slacker son. One only wishes the actors had a little more material to work with. The technical aspect of the show deserves special mention, with truly inspired artistic direction and engaging use of the set. (Monica Westin)
At the Chicago Temple Building, 77 W. Washington, (888)745-5849. This production is now closed.
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