Blake Hackler brings us his new work, Healed

HEALED

By Blake Hackler

Directed by Carson McCain Gray

Assistant Directed by Jori Jackson

Produced by Second Thought Theatre

Audience Rating: PG-13

Running Time: 2 hours, no intermission

Accessible Seating: Available, plan ahead for arrangements

Sensory Friendly Showing: Not Available

Hearing Devices: Not Available

Volume Level: Comfortable volume level; loud at times

Noises and Visuals to Prepare For: Self-harm, loud screaming, depiction of death

Reviewed by Natalie Shaw

Healed, as a script is laden with thematic elements. So many, it's difficult to focus on only one, whether in writing, thought or conversation. Illusion, Speculation and Misconception are a few that stand out. Truthfully speaking, I've erased this review in full, once, and in part, twice. This is my third attempt. There is much to unpack, and I've discovered that I'd need five pages to truly analyze it. Some of these major ideas have pressed on personal moments that are always hard for me to revisit, however validating. It reminds me that I am not alone, which I think, in essence is the entire point to the play--if not the entire point to Theatre itself.

Blake Hackler's Healed is a new work, making its world premier at Second Thought Theatre in Dallas under the direction of Carson McCain Gray. It addresses the costs of health, not only in the financial aspect, but in terms of time, energy, and sacrifices such as independence and family connections. When Gail (Gigi Cervantes) has reached her last hope of being cured from her chronic pain among other ailments, she sells her house and temporarily moves in with her daughter Caroline (Amanda Nicole Reyes) and grandson Matty, in order to make her last attempt at a medical retreat called "Pureaire," which promises ultimate healing and restoration, as long as you follow the code of conduct, among other rules, routines and procedures.

As a production, the all-female presenting cast is phenomenal and refreshing in their approach to their characterization, individually and as an ensemble. Cervantes is defensively ambitious in Gail's recovery, demanding control of the life that her illness has stolen away from her. Reyes approaches Caroline with a thoughtful progression, who is irritated by her mother's neediness and hovering at first, but lends itself to a deeper appreciation and dependency for her support at the play's conclusion. Lisa Lloyd is well accomplished as the powerfully direct and authoritative Dr. T, countering the urgent desperation and despair of Gigi Cervantes' Gail. The audience is gifted with moments of private connections made by several characters, including the spiritually gifted, Ruth (vicki washington, intentionally lower-cased), who has the ability to heal, albeit only some individuals at "Pureaire." Upon Gail's arrival at the institution, we are met with the no-nonsense manager, Sacha (Liz Sankarsingh) reviewing the strict codes of conduct. Sankarsingh's Sacha has made it clear that there will be no free handouts-- you will have to work if you wish to improve. Confused and discontent with what to expect from her treatment at "Pureaire," Gail demands to see the doctor, disillusioned into believing that she is not strong enough or capable enough to get better on her own accord--surely there is a magic pill, an injection of some sort, perhaps, to alleviate her suffering. Her request is denied--the doctor is not in and she will not see you now. Dejected she takes an entire bottle of pain medication (almost) to get their attention. She certainly gets Dr. T's attention, but it lacks the compassion, promise and revelation she's been pleading for. More tears, more frustration, more lamentation.

The message at "Pureaire" is simple: Healthiness doesn't always mean happiness, and vice versa. Many clients at this facility failed to learn or accept this lesson, unlike Sam (Kat Lozano) and Rena (Karen Parrish,) who have many words of wisdom and encouragement for Gail on how to survive her stay. Everything will be fine, as long as you do what you're told--everything will be fine--until it won't. Lozano, carefully and almost subtly takes us on her own emotional journey with Sam, from acceptance, to agony, to anger to complete breakdown and back again. Parrish's Rena is the amiable sense of humor, which slowly deteriorates, leaving us all heartbroken and hopeless. Fortunately, for Gail, through Ruth, reparation does come, but at a heavy cost. Is it worth it? Would you do the same thing? Are you lying?

Clarity for the characters is a constant struggle; the "washing of windows," which always seem to be dirty. I appreciated the window frame aesthetic that made its appearance in the lighting designs by Roma Flowers. Flowers also incorporated a darkness-to-light theme in her work, allowing the first half to be "in the dark" as much as possible, and, as discoveries are made, the brightness of the light intensifies. Costumes by Kathleen Culebro resemble that of rehab facility, both in uniformity and confinement. Set design by Jose Torres tells a story of journey and transformation in which Gail's place of residence with daughter Caroline appears worn and warped, while the "Pureaire" facility is clean, bright and well-polished. Occasionally, the worn/warped space is used for scenes where a certain truth or reality needs display, which is wisely done. Cresent R. Haynes makes use of dramatic and eerie sound effects to add to the mystery of the story and Mikaela Donelle Brooks stage manages each cue with perfection!

As always, my ultimate goal is to have Dallas Theatre Journal in attendance of any production as soon as possible, opening weekend is my first attempt, in order to spread the word about the performances. This time, unfortunately, that wasn't accomplished. But, you must know two things! First, Second Thought's entire season is made up of world premiers just like this one! Second, this review (late as it may be) will serve as an aide, allowing this play to be published. So, no regrets! (But, also, my apologies.) I'm grieved if you've missed it this time around. But, I'm confident it will make a comeback To see what's next at Second Thought, please visit them at secondthoughttheatre.com

Enjoy!

Natalie Shaw

For more on Blake Hackler's Healed, read the Extended Review on the DTJ Patreon Page!