Review by Katrina “Kat” Reynolds. CLYDE’S presented by Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park through November 5th. I attended the opening night performance.
The cast of Clyde’s presented by Playhouse in the Park. Photo credit to Mikki Schaffner.
I’ll tell you something: in the last couple of years, Pulitzer Prize-winner Lynn Nottage has quickly become one of my favourite playwrights. So when I got wind that her latest play, Clyde’s, would be going up at Moe and Jack’s Place (The Rouse Theatre) at Playhouse in the Park, needless to say I was enthusiastic.
Clyde’s, directed by Timothy Douglas, tells the story of a truck-stop known for its sandwiches. Not-so-publicly known is that the kitchen crew are ex-cons who eagerly take the bait of a real job when finding such a thing after prison can be incredibly difficult. But owner and fellow ex-con Clyde’s manner can be enough to make them regret jumping at the chance at a so-called “honest living”.
Set Designer Se Hyun Oh deserve a standing “Oh” (oof, even I cringed at that one) for his incredible work. Word on the street is that Mr. Oh consulted with a professional chef for the kitchen model and it shows. The layout as well as the attention to detail throughout are absolutely brilliant. Plus I’m a sucker for a set that contains a sink with running water.
Casting Director Stephanie Klapper has put together one of the most harmonious ensembles of actors I’ve ever seen. Strong, committed, and talented, they all deserve a mention by name (in speaking order): Michael Cornelius Chenevert, Jr. as Montrellous; Maiesha McQueen as Clyde; Shannon Dorsey as Letitia; Juan Arturo as Rafael; and Austin Kirk as Jason. These accomplished artists will make you feel like you are the proverbial “fly on the wall” witnessing all the happenings in this gritty and all too real tale.
While I am a big fan of the way Ms. Nottage incorporates music into her scene changes, the number of changes in this particular script seems to be excessive.
Some are rather lengthy for very little payoff. But as I often say, if we get that nit-picky, they are doing something right. There is another plot point that seemed inconsistent regarding the character Rafael, but since I don’t do spoilers, I won’t get into it here. Ask me when you see me and we can chat about it.
In short, this allegory of people just trying to survive their mistakes without becoming them is an enjoyable time at the theatre*. Running approximately 95 mins with no intermission, be sure you eat directly before or directly after Clyde’s because you are definitely going to need a sandwich.
For tickets, please visit the Playhouse site here.
*Important note about content advisory: very strong adult language and discussing mature topics, including sex, substance abuse and illegal activities.
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