Chelsea Sutton’s thoughtful and thought-provoking 99 Impossible Things is distinguished by well-written dialogue and engaging characters. Also directed by Sutton the play performs through February 13 at the Eclectic Company Theatre.
The Magic Bean Coffee Shop is owned and run by Ellen (Tiffany Cole) and patronized by an assortment of coffee-lovers including stymied inventor Harold (Jason Britt), Ellen’s brother Casey (Mason Hallberg) and his invisible friend Paul (Geoff James), homeless artist Alice (Barbara Scolaro) and newcomer Jaye (Jessica Lightfoot). Lydia is the waitress who is kept busy attending to their caffeine needs. No one but Harold can see the Sea Monkey (Jullian Easton) who inexplicably shadows him. And Gabie (R.J. Farrington) is present as Ellen’s “guardian.”
The connections between these individuals are presented in a slow reveal. Yearning, sorrow, love, loss, friendship and hope are explored. This coffee shop lives up to its name, with a bit of mysticism and the miraculous thrown in.
The talented actors worked well together. Especially appealing were Britt and James. Farrington’s timing was impeccable and her stage presence was powerful. Everyone would be blessed by such a guardian.
Bryan Forrest’s set design was effective and made excellent use of the stage. Kudos to Virginia VandenBerg’s creative “Sea Monkey” costume. Lighting design by Rebecca Bonebrake was also effective and Sound Designer Sean Kozma’s moody, mournful and evocative choice of music was inspired. It would make a great “mix tape.”
Theater aficionados who appreciate intimate theater, fine ensemble acting and the chance to see the work of up and coming playwrights should definitely see 99 Impossible Things.
99 Impossible Things performs 8 p.m.Friday and Saturday and 7 p.m.Sunday through February 13, 2011. Admission is $18. Call 818-508-3003 or visit www.EclecticCompanyTheatre.org.
The Eclectic Company Theatre is located at 5312 Laurel Canyon Blvd. (between Magnolia and Chandler) in Valley Village.
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