Jon Kovach as Ben.
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NOTHING BY NIC BALTHAZAR presented by Unity Productions as part of the 2012 Cincinnati Fringe Festival. You can read the show description here.
Jon Kovach gives one of the best solo performances in this year’s fringe festival as autistic teen Ben in NOTHING.
This production is a modified version of the show that is performed to high school students as an anti-bullying presentation. The video clips are of professional quality and well-acted. The multi-media execution is extremely well-done. Kovach offers a detailed and nuanced performance. I was also impressed by how Jon, as a lone actor, recounted the physical confrontations Ben had to endure.
I did feel that the play spun its wheels for a bit right before the resolution and I was slightly confused about the action at one point. Both are minor issues, and this being the Fringe, I was able to discuss those with Kovach after the performance.
If you stay for the Q&A after the performance, (which I recommend), one thing that definitely comes through is Kovach’s excitement and commitment to the work.
For parents of teens, this is a great opportunity to share an experience and open a dialogue with you kids. For educators, a chance to preview a program you may want to bring to your school. For Fringe audience members, a chance to see a strong performance in an interesting and thought-provoking show.
Click here for a complete list of show times, local media coverage and other reviews for NOTHING BY NIC BALTHAZAR.
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