Escape into 'The Attic'

Went to see The Play Co.'s production of Yoji Sakate's 'The Attic' last night at 59E59. It was really amazing. I preface this by saying that the director, Ari Edelson, is one of my best buddies, but that just means I would be more honestly critical if I didn't like it. In fact, it was some of the most fun I've had in the theatre in a while. Not surprising, I'm a sucker for new international work, and The Play Co. is certainly the one organization in New York I know I can always depend on to present original and challenging material from abroad. This play really takes the cake though in regards to creative and inventive ways of constructing a story. The central character is none other than the set itself and how dozens of individuals struggle and cope within it. I attended the show with my good friend and set designer extraordinaire, Martin Andrew, who always has something negative to say about scenic elements, and, to my amazement, all he had were compliments for the design. The play glides between styles and genres seamlessly, and the eight actors do a bang-up job at juggling over thirty different characters. Normally I find it difficult to focus for 110 minutes without an intermission, but the time really flew by, and more often than not, I was leaning forward in my seat. The show closes on March 25, so you've got another two weeks to check out this incredibly humorous, moving and unique new play.