Human connection is difficult; putting aside inhibition and flaw to reach out to someone is daunting. Reconnecting after betrayal is damn near impossible.
Harper Regan(Kendra Thulin) wants to go home; her diabetic father is in a coma and she needs to say goodbye. A boss’ refusal to grant time off awakens her sense of punk-rock rebellion and sends Harper on a three-day odyssey full of unsatisfying assignations. She discovers dizzying truths about her family’s recent fragmentation and tries to find the strength to put it all back together.
Thulin’s bedraggled vulnerability keeps the audience rooting for Harper, despite unorthodox behavior. Peter Moore captures the pain of her repentant spouse and Caroline Neff’s portrayal of their disoriented daughter is emotionally rich. Marcus Stephens’ unfinished set reveals torn insulation that offers no protection and wiring that connects to nothing, an apt environment for a family trying to find its way back. (Lisa Buscani)
At Steep Theatre, 115 W. Berwyn, (866)811-4111. Through February 27.
Buggin’ Out: A Review of Bug at Steppenwolf Theatre The audience is the fly on the wall of a dingy Oklahoma hotel room where Agnes White is taking refuge from her recently released, abusive ex-husband Jerry.
