Review for Wait Until Dark, Garland Civic Theatre
Reviewed by Natalie Shaw
Glancing at my husband while our two year old would throw a fit on the floor around the seven o'clock hour, and simply stating, "B-E-D" was commonplace until he reached the age of four and would yell out, "I'M NOT TIRED!!" Spelling out words that he couldn't understand was our way of communicating in code, especially in urgent (or semi-urgent) situations. The day we learned that he could spell didn't work so much in our favor-- although, as parents we were proud of him for learning to spell, nonetheless. Our crafty little plan no longer worked. The child could not be deceived! So, we were forced to proceed with other measures like coercing, bribing, and finally, betraying our patience and begin threatening punishment. Did it work? Not in the slightest! In the end, we found that good, wholesome reward systems and common routines were the answer all along.
Wait Until Dark exhibits these concepts of deceit and betrayal while assuming that the victim involved lacks competency. Our main character, Suzy Hendrix became blind after an automobile accident, but over time, learned how to navigate through the world around her in the darkness. Meanwhile, her remaining senses become more prominent. She hears what type of shoes someone's wearing by listening to the stride of their walk. She hears a cloth being brushed around her house as another person works to clean his fingerprints off the surfaces that he touches. Ms. Alexzandria Smith plays a gentle, but savvy Suzy, one who trusts those around her, but isn't so trusting that she becomes a complete fool. Upon becoming involved with three swindlers who misguide her, lure her and underestimate her, all while inferring that she must ignorant because she is blind, Suzy must play along and strategize in order to protect her husband and herself from the evil-doing frauds. In search of a valuable doll, these three imposters, played by Brian Hokanson (as Harry), Adam Anthony Vigil (as Sgt. Carlino) and Jonathon Luce (as Mike Talman,) use every measure, including murder, to get their hands on this irreplaceable toy. With the help of an ornery little girl. Gloria, (played by Bella Brown) Suzy attempts to outwit her offenders. To find out if she's successful, well, you'll have to see it for yourself!
When you do attend a performance, you'll greatly enjoy the dynamic relationship between Gloria and Suzy. Initially, these two clash and butt heads, until they realize just how much they have in common. Ms. Smith uses clear motivation and sharp tactics throughout her performance, notable so in her dealings with Gloria. She switches from strict authoritative actions to nurturing and soothing methods in order to gain Gloria's respect, rather than her submission. Ms. Smith recognizes that children are humans who also seek respect and love in the same ways that adults do, and she portrays this understanding within her performance, allowing Suzy to transform in the character's awareness of this perception. Likewise, Bella Brown's interpretation of Gloria is studious and strategic. She responds to Suzy's rude behavior with her own misbehavior, namely nonchalantly sweeping her arm across the tables and counters to knock items off onto the floor, knowing that her opponent will struggle to clean up the mess on her hands and knees, feeling her way to each displaced item on the floor. Once Ms. Brown recognizes that she has won this scene and that her character's pride is no longer in danger, she joins forces with Suzy, attempting to be friends.
If you are not fearful of leaving the theatre and running into Brian Hokanson, then you are much braver than I. Mr. Hokanson's translation of mastermind con-artist turned murderer, Harry Roat, will have your heart racing in fear for Suzy's life, if not your own. Although, I'm confident that Mr. Hokanson is a kind man in reality, he plays a very convincing and chilling villain! I hope to also see his next performance, where perhaps he'll be cast as a protagonist or, in the least, an honorable character. I'm intrigued to see his acting range!
Director Stacey Upton Bracey brings us a solid production with polished scene transitions, rising energy and compelling characters. In addition to directing, Ms. Upton Bracey acted as set designer, providing an aesthetic set which is well crafted and creatively accomplished, particularly in the use of vertical space.
Wait Until Dark does not disappoint-- a gripping narrative of betrayal and deceit! Garland Civic Theatre proves to exceed in artistic skill and experience. Don't miss your chance to see this incredible production!
This play is more appropriate for ages 14 and up. Note that there are moments of complete darkness and violent scenes. Accessibility may be available on the bottom level.
Y'all enjoy!
Natalie Shaw
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