Review for DEATHTRAP, Allen Contemporary Theatre

 


Review for Deathtrap at Allen Contemporary Theatre 
3-20-22
Reviewed by Natalie Shaw, owner and operator of Dallas Theatre Journal

Do you ever have that dream where you're falling and can't grab a hold of anything? Or, that dream where someone is chasing you and you're falling behind? And, then you wake up before you meet your impending doom, sweat covering your face, and your heart pumping out of your chest. That feeling that you get, knowing you were about to die-- utter fear! And the feeling of relief that you get, knowing that it was all a dream and you're okay. When I have nightmares like that, I wake up angry, at myself for even experiencing it and causing such anxiety to come over me--as if I could help myself. Robyn Mead, director of Deathtrap addresses the concept of fear in the playbill, asking, "I wonder what it is that makes us love to be scared?" My good friend, and recent feature of the Dallas Theatre Journal Newsletter, Albie Robles explains in his podcast, Scare Me, that we crave fear because all of us have a sense of empathy. As we watch characters, like the ones we see on film-- horrors, thrillers, dramas, etc.-- we feel a deep sense of empathy for what they're going through. We even say prayers for them, "Oh God, please help them get away." We desire this type of excitement because of how we are constructed as humans. And, once again, we feel that overwhelming relief when it all turns out okay, or that bubbling fury when it doesn't turn out okay.  
Deathtrap explores this element of fear with so many twists and turns, you suspect absolutely everyone as a murderer, (including the person sitting beside you, in front of you, or BEHIND you! OH NO! THEY'RE BEHIND YOU!! AHHHH!!! Oh, sorry about that, it was just a shadow, *phew* )What's even better, than being scared? Being able to laugh about it! It's a wise storyteller who embeds humor into dramatic genres, and thankfully, Ira Levin gives us plenty of ease through laughter. Levin uses comedic one-liners, awkward situations and well-rounded characters for our amusement. For example, the character, Helga, played by the very talented Kelly Moore Clarkson, dawns a cheerful, motherly personality who exhibits compassion and care over her neighbors, warning them of their epic calamity by use of her psychic powers. She celebrates in their successes and her own as one's own mother would, in a jovial way that places her at the center of lighthearted merriment. Helga is our safety net through this tragedy.  Kelly Moore Clarkson plays lovable and a charmingly comical Helga who is both witty and wise. Although she has many attributes, on stage Ms. Clarkson has gracious movement, clever articulation and clear motivations. She is right at home on the stage--a gracious host, and we are right at home with her.
The comedy of this play may be our escape, but the tense fear is what drives the story! The intensity in Deathtrap is consciously built into Ira Levin's writing, but it takes a genuine artist to identify it, work with it and apply to performance. Alex Rain, who plays the main character Sidney Bruhl, is such the artist! Sidney is a successful playwright who will do anything, including murder to get a great story line for a play. He is manipulative and deceitful in every manner, removing every obstacle in his path. In these moments, where the energy on stage is meant to rise, Mr. Rain tightens the screws on his character's motivation, pressuring his counterparts to comply with his desires. Any novice actor could easily play this character as "crazy," leaving the audience confused and wanting more explanation behind the character's ambitions. But, Mr. Rain is a well-founded professional, who brings us a fine-tuned, authentic character in his performance, making Sidney a convincing individual, with genuine, believable passion. In short, we actually start to believe Sidney, and take his side in some of the matters at hand, despite the harm he brings others. But, in the end, we examine our own character, as one who would side with a criminal. 
Allen Contemporary Theatre is a cozy intimate theater, with a friendly atmosphere. Free concessions, welcoming conversation and comfortable chairs in the waiting area allow for a moment of peace and relaxation before the show begins. Familiar patrons of the theater bring a buzzing energy in the house and a well-designed set draws you into the story before the show has even begun. 
ACT's production of Deathtrap is thrilling; a fascinating adventure with dramatic twists and turns! 
Book your seat for a night of excitement and riveting entertainment by visiting https://allencontemporarytheatre.net/tickets 

This show is best suited for ages 14 and up. Note that this play also contains a homosexual theme, violence, and loud gun shots so it may not be suited for all audiences. For our audience members who require accessible seating, you will find an accessible spot located in the front, near the door, and accessible bathroom stall to use at your convenience. Contact the theater at 844-822-8849 for additional information concerning accommodations. 

Y'all enjoy! 

Natalie Shaw 


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