I wasn't sure what I had gotten myself into when I watched the first few minutes of Disillusioned, a new play recently extended from the Midtown International Theatre Festival Short Subjects series written by Susan Hodara.
There was a hokey recording playing and even phonier magic tricks happening on a tiny black box stage. But while there are several bumpy transitions and limited technical possibilities, the overall story is quite touching.
The premise is that a very shy, once-orphaned girl named Jane pretends to be blind around people to cope with her stage fright and insecurities. After a sheltered life and losing the only person she loves, her blindness turns into an actuality.
Though some of the magic seems affected in the small space, it is how the tricks relate to Jane's life and affliction that make the story thought-provoking. Hodara creates many abundant and lucid moments for the three actors in the show, but especially for Jane and her uncle, Bernie.
The scenes, however, need more precise punctuations. Or, punctuations at all - both textually and technically. The audience expects more after each scene and waits tentatively to clap. I wasn't even sure it was over until they actually bowed.
The performers do a nice job of creating solid relationships even with these awkward jolts and limited resources. Georgie Caldwell, in particular, draws the audience in with a bright smile and emotional maturity as Jane, a role that could become stereotypical or annoying in her struggles.
The cast also includes Eric Powers, Keith Manolo Embler and Hans, the bunny. It is directed by Noel Neeb, produced by Scott Rosenblum and Susan Hodara (Two From The Aisle Productions), stage managed by Dalia Garcia and has costumes by Rachel McKinney and lighting by Jamie Roderick.
Though the transitions need cleaning up and the production is raw, this play is worth a look. 'Short Subject' also means a short price in this case, because tickets are only $15. They can be purchased by calling 212.868.4444.
The last show is Sunday, October 25 at 5pm at the Where Eagles Dare Studio (347 W 36th St. Floor 13). For more information, visit www.twofromtheaisleproductions.com/shows.html.
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