By Katrina “Kat” Reynolds
MR. PARENT presented by Playhouse in the Park through Oct. 6th. I attended the opening night performance.
Maurice Emmanuel Parent in Mr. Parent presented by Playhouse in the Park. Photo credit to Mikki Schaffner Photography
As its first 2024-2025 season offering in its Rosenthal Shelterhouse Theatre, Playhouse in the Park brings us MR. PARENT written by Melinda Lopez and Maurice Emmanuel Parent. Telling the story (or stories, rather) of an actor turned public school teacher in order to earn a steady paycheck, MR. PARENT is a one-person show told by the actor himself.
Director (and conception collaborator) Megan Sandberg-Zakian ensures the play space is used to its fullest. Incorporating a rather simple yet versatile set designed by Cristina Todesco, our actor-playing-a-teacher keeps the action going with steady movement. Lighting Designer Karen Perlow does an excellent job with mood-appropriate lighting – from the stark light of a classroom to the dimmer lights of a tense scene being performed in an audition.
As one can imagine, it can be difficult to go on at length over a 90 minute, one-person show. That does not mean, however, that this show lacks the proverbial punch. As an artist myself, I certainly have a kinship of sorts with Mr. Parent – but it is not necessary to share this kinship in order to get something from his art. The stories of a gay man of color trying to navigate the need to make his passion a way of paying the bills alone is a wonderful point of view for all to see. In addition, the transition from accepting a gig as a theatre teacher in the Boston Public School system for the stability by day so he could pursue artistic passion by night – leading him to realize he had actually learned to care about these children who sometimes lacked such care at home is a wild ride.
Mr. Parent (the writer/actor) gives audiences an all-encompassing performance that is clearly drawn from the students who touched his lives for a few short years. His delivery is spot-on and he keeps up the momentum easily. In addition, his tales are hilarious, relatable, touching, and heart-breaking – and even educational! Yes, there is a white board and dry erase markers and you will be taken to school.
In case you didn’t know, teachers have a thankless job – especially those in the public school sector. MR. PARENT is ultimately a love letter to those whose passion is to educate and better our future leaders with personal experiences to back it up. Maurice Emmanuel Parent is a passionate and sensitive human being who knows how to tell a story and this show is a lovely piece.
Click here for more information about the production.
Behind the Curtain Cincinnati 