A violent, graphic sex tape pops up in an affluent Catholic prep school and its administrators attempt to identify the participants. Ivy League-bound Brandon (Eric Casady ) is a possible suspect but denies involvement to his white-collar mom (Suzanne Nyhan ) and his best friend (Curtis Jackson).
Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa’s script doesn’t dumb down the narrative; it explores all the gray areas of sexism, classicism and homophobia the tale incorporates. The younger cast displays sharp insight; Casady has the right demi-god swagger and Jackson‘s creamy moral center is spiked with painful sexual attraction. Madison McLean as the tape’s exploited woman is a different kind of victim; she consents to the initial act and understands its sexual and economic ramifications. However, directors Scot Kokandy and Jeff Casey’s staging lacks oomph; the video presentation and audio design could be more compelling. It’s a smart story that needs better visuals to bring it across. (Lisa Buscani)
Towle Theater and Kokandy Productions at Theater Wit, 1229 West Belmont, (773)975-8150. Through July 9.
Related Stories
Don't Wait, Go Go: A Review of Head Over Heels at Kokandy Productions Part Go-Go's concert, part seventeenth century romance and part fantasmagorical fashion show, this local premiere is a love story we desperately need.- The Not-So-Carefree Life: A Review of Grand Hotel at Kokandy Productions Harking back to the early forties and the late eighties, this revival at Kokandy Productions is not so much timely as full of time.
- Between a Saint and a Sinner: A Review of Good Enough at 16th Street Theater This simple but hardly straightforward world premiere finds one woman speaking her truth with honesty and self-reflection.
- Nothing Either Good or Bad: A Review of Hamlet at Chicago Shakespeare Theater Directed by Barbara Gaines, CST's production meets but does not exceed expectations.
- War, What Is It Good For: A Review of Harbur Gate at 16th Street Theater Ann Filmer and 16th Street Theater take on one of America's most time-honored professions: soldiering.
- Idol Spectacle: A Review of Voice of Good Hope at City Lit Theater Kristine Thatcher’s biographical drama on Barbara Jordan resurfaces at a crucial juncture in American history.
