Bryan Bosque and Rasika Ranganathan/Photo: Scott Dray
RECOMMENDED
“An Asian actress?” A character in Nandita Shenoy’s “Washer/Dryer” laughs in utter disbelief that such a thing could exist. It is that mindset coupled with the lack of diversity seen on Chicago stages that birthed Rasaka Theatre Company, with its focus on South Asian artists and South Asian stories. How refreshing to see that these artists and experiences are not as unlikely as the character would believe, but a tangible reality seen in “Washer/Dryer.”
The play follows a day in the life of multicultural newlyweds Sonya (Rasika Ranganathan) and Michael Lee (Bryan Bosque). They’ve got their rings and now they have moved in together. There’s one problem—Sonya’s apartment is “single occupancy only,” which will most definitely put her at odds with her by-the-book co-op president Wendee (Erika Napoletano).
The couple’s troubles don’t end there—what would a “perfect day” be without a visit from Michael’s overbearing and judgmental mother Dr. Lee (Cheryl Hamada), who is not a fan of his new wife? Add their nosy flamboyant neighbor Sam (Omer Abbas Salem, who steals the show with charisma and comic timing) in the mix, and an already great day just gets better.
“Washer/Dryer” is a lighthearted comedy that may take a while to heat up, but is highly entertaining once it does. However, the play is not without problems, principally staging. At times it can be difficult to see; audience members next to me leaned forward at one point to make out what was in a bag characters were looking in and holding up, because only those in the front could see clearly.
Sightlines aside, “Washer/Dryer” makes for a fun night out. (Loy Webb)
Rasaka Theatre Company at Victory Gardens Theater, 2433 North Lincoln, rasakatheatre.com, $25-$30. Through October 11.
Related Stories
A Long Time Coming: A Review of Caroline, Or Change at Firebrand Theatre & TimeLine Theatre Company Firebrand Theatre and TimeLine Theatre Company co-produce this stirring revival with book and lyrics by Tony Kushner and music by Jeanine Tesori.- Let "X" Equal... : A Review of X at Sideshow Theatre Company In space, no one knows what time it is.
- I Believe You, Bruce: A Review of Downstate at Steppenwolf Theatre Company In this world premiere at Steppenwolf Theatre Company, Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Bruce Norris attempts to redress the power imbalance between the disenfranchised and those who wield influence over their livelihood, though not in the direction you might expect.
- State of Mind: A Review of You for Me for You at Sideshow Theatre Company Mia Chung's new play at Sideshow Theatre Company is an inventive and imaginative contrast of totalitarian nightmare and democratic indulgence.
- This Is "us": A Review of columbinus at The Yard and Steppenwolf Theatre Company In collaboration with Steppenwolf Theatre Company, The Yard returns with their most ambitious and urgent project to date.
- #NotMyQueen: A Review of The Revolutionists at Strawdog Theatre Company The ideas in Lauren Gunderson's play may not be new but they are still revolutionary.
