THE SOUND INSIDE Review

By Katrina “Kat” Reynolds

THE SOUND INSIDE presented by Ensemble Theatre of Cincinnati through April 27th. I attended the Opening Night performance. 

The cast of THE SOUND INSIDE presented by Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati. Photo by Ryan Kurtz.

This April, Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati is bringing audiences The Sound Inside by Adam Rapp. An enigmatic sort of tale by the playwright of Red Light Winter is summarized as the story of a creative writing professor and a gifted student who form an unexpectedly intense bond. Since there is definitely some mystery, there will be no spoilers here.

Making the trek a few blocks over from his Cincinnati Shakespeare Company home, Brian Isaac Phillips once again joins ETC as a “guest” director. Fortunately for us all, his gift travels nicely. Per usual, Mr. Phillips has his actors make excellent use of the playing space. Complementing the movement well is Scenic & Light Designer Brian c. Mehring’s execution of an almost palpably chilly backdrop (or was the heat just on the fritz opening night?). One of the best things about shows at Ensemble is that they never shy away from making grand sets and this one particularly takes advantage of the vertical space they have at their disposal. Further, projections designed by Becca Schall are pointed and used with the ideal amount of restraint.

While this show certainly belongs to one character more than another, both performing artists are exceptionally cast and non-negotiable. Playing the role of Christopher, an Ivy League freshman with creative writing aspirations, is Rupert Spraul. Mr. Spraul has a mysterious and almost impish presence on stage without being too precious. His portrayal of a young man who would keep anyone guessing is inspired.

In the role of tenured Ivy League professor, Bella, is the inimitable Annie Fitzpatrick. This may be a bold statement, but this is quite possibly one of the best roles she has ever tackled. I was drawn in from the very first words out of Ms. Fitzpatrick’s mouth and it felt like it was just the two of us, chatting over coffee. She gives the audience a master class on how to navigate the subtleties of an intimate slice of a character’s life. It is difficult to avert your eyes from her, but Mr. Spraul was just as engaging and they went toe-to-toe very nicely. (Besides, I envy a human being who can curse where it doesn’t sound nearly as offensive as when I do it.)

I have had the privilege of seeing some incredible theatre in my time – and quite a bit this season. It can be difficult to surprise me and our BTC genius, Rob Bucher. But we love when it happens and this play is definitely something to discuss. In a rare nod, this is definitely a “must see” play. It’s no picnic, however: this show is fraught with heavy topics and emotions that may re-open some previously healed wounds. While the show covers content relating to illness, mental health, and self-harm, it is for very good reason. There is a story to be told and I sincerely hope you’re there to listen and take heed of it.

Click here for more information about the production.