Tales from the Dugout
Pink Banana Theatre Co. opened its annual show comprised completely of original one-acts on Friday, March 27. Staying true to its mission of encouraging new artists, Pink Banana used locally grown writers, actors and directors. With few mis-steps, Pink Banana once again showed itself to be a hot bed of young Milwaukee talent.
Using a video screen as a back drop served two-fold: first, as a way of introducing the writers, actors and directors of each one-act and also as a set piece to suggest location. In Along for the Ride, a video of the retreating road through a back window added scenic depth and clarity to what could have just been actors in chairs on stage.
The last scene before the intermission proved to be a bit off kilter. Written and directed by Stephanie AB Wiedenhoeft, A Squirrels Nest aimed to examine the lives of five women. While obvious that the point was to highlight the internal and external conflicts that unite women, it was generic and used too many blanket statements to be truly insightful.
Subject to Change, written by Alison Niles and directed by Joe Foti, lived up to its title by showcasing the rapid adjustments women in the armed forces must make. Unrequited Hate, written by Russ Bickerstaff and directed by Fjosh Redbeard, was an intriguing look into the relationship between co-workers. Complemented by actors Nick Firer and Adrian F. Feliciano, this fast-paced spoof was another audience favorite. Rounding out the show was The Interpreters, written by Artistic Director Rose Wasielewski and directed by Patrik Beck. A couple seeking marriage counseling receives help and answers in a pair of frank and outspoken interpreters who voice the true meanings of their words.
For complete schedules and ticket information for all of Milwaukee’s theaters, visit Footlights online.
