FOUR
by Christopher Shinn
@ The Celebration Theatre in Los Angeles
A Review
By Jibril Alexander
Photo credit Gil Kaan
Indivisibly united by the common denominator  loneliness two people father and daughter kindle relationships on the Fourth of July that set off more than fireworks in a New England City.
Broadway Actor, Michael Shepperd gives a tour de force performance as Joe a seemingly balanced heterosexual African-American male and proud father of a 16 year old, who constantly checks in on the family while he is out of town. On the day that commemorates our nations freedom, traditionally celebrated with huge family backyard barbeques, Joe is celebrating on the down low away from home in “Bean Town.” He invites the attention of a young man named June (Nathan Fizzell) who he meets on the Internet. Fizell with a baby face blanched look is perfectly cast in the role of a virgin. All the apprehension and guilt is apparent in his portrayal without overkill. Joe knows how to ease the tension of a first timer using paternal skills and beguiling conversation to woo the young man. This is not new to Joe. It’s a clever seduction.
While dad’s away, his pubescent sixteen year old daughter Abigayle superbly played by Cesli Williams who by the way has the most amazing smile is left at home to take care of a chronically ailing mother alluded to offstage. Abigayle is between and betwixt yielding her affections to a young boy named Dexter (Blaine Vedros). However, there is a slight problem he is white and she is black in a small east coast city where inter-racial relationships are still considered taboo. Vedros a young hot bod cutie reminiscent of Saturday Night Fever’s Travolta is irresistible in everyway and delivers a slam-dunk performance. The playwright clues the audience in to the fact that Dexter has an affinity for black girls with just one word and brings a little “I got it” snicker to those who catch it.
Both father and daughter’s relationships unveil stunningly, at parallel moments.
The four are looking for freedom to be who they truly are and on the day best known for that elusive F word in the area of the Amistad and Freedom trail they are going about it in the most clandestine way.
On the Fourth of July play, these characters, Joe, Abigayle, June and Dexter ignite sparks that could inflame a nation.
Four is bold, daring and controversial. Director Michael Mathews keeps the piece moving with swift set changes and simple set design allowing the spotlight to shine on the superb acting ensemble with no intermission.
Alain Rochel produces @ The Celebration Theatre 7051B Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles, CA. The play runs through December 04th.
Kurt Boetcher – Scenic Design
Steven Cahill Sound Design
Cricket S. Myers – Sound Design
Marjorie Baer – Costume Designer
Rebecca Many – Stage Manager
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