Molly and I were lucky enough to catch Stick Fly in NYC over Thanksgiving break. Especially lucky because she and I both missed it when it was at the Hunt.
Firstly, I’d like to say how proud I am to say Lydia is my teacher. I understand that this piece is unlike most of her other work, but DAMN it’s a good play. During the whole show, Molly and I would turn to each other after clever lines and say, “Lydia…”
The acting was absolutely fantastic. Condola Rashad was exceptional. Really. She was so genuine, dropped in, and really told the story of her character effortlessly. What is even more impressive is that she is the least seasoned actor, but in my opinion, out acted her cast mates.
Really, though, all the acting was good. The only person I disagreed with at points was Tracie Thoms, who I thought was sometimes in a different world than the other actors. From my perspective it seemed that she was stuck in a campier, musical version of Stick Fly as opposed to the very realistic world of everyone else.
Kenny Leon’s direction was outstanding. Not only was it visually compelling, but it explored tremendous dynamics. The contrast between the humor and the tragedy, the subtle and the in-your-face. He sculpted the play into something that I did not want to end.
Altogether, it was a fantastic piece. And after seeing so many out-of-the-box shows here at school, I was surprised that I loved this sort of living room comedy so much. It just goes to show that a good play is a good play.
