By Katrina “Kat” Reynolds
THE HEART SELLERS presented by Cincinnati in the Park through November 23rd. I attended the Opening Night performance.
The cast of The Heart Sellers presented by Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park. Photo by Mikki Schaffner Photography.
This fall, Playhouse in the Park is bringing audience’s THE HEART SELLERS by Lloyd Suh in its The Rosenthal Shelterhouse Theatre. (Playhouse produced Mr. Suh’s The Chinese Lady in the same space in 2023. Yes: his writing is that good.) Described as “a funny and moving new comedy about finding direction in the land of opportunity”, we find ourselves in Luna’s apartment where she is determined to celebrate the American holiday of Thanksgiving with her new friend (and fellow Asian immigrant), Jane.
Director Desdemona Chiang (so jealous of this name!) is thoroughly impressive in her vision’s execution. The use of the intimate playing space – a very modest studio apartment – is top notch and pacing of the action is steady. Set Design by Sasha Jin Schwartz is thoughtful with exceptional attention to detail. Costume Designer Christine Tschirgi exceeds expectations with the period-appropriate wardrobe which combines the characters’ wishes to blend into American dress with homage to the culture(s) they have known most of their lives. Special shout-out to Sound Designer Sharath Patel for some of the best executed sound effects I’ve ever heard.
If nothing else convinces you to head to The Shelterhouse, this cast of two ridiculously talented performing artists should. Bursting onto the scene in exuberant fashion we see Luna played marvelously by Angeleia Ordoñez. Her enthusiasm is not only contagious, but so pure you could cry from joy. Luna feels things deeply and while it is clear she has been advised more than once to suppress said feelings, the comfort she feels with Jane allows them to be expressed. Ms. Ordoñez is able to voice so many things Asian immigrants have felt and continue to feel as they try to navigate the minefield of American society with an innate relatability.
As a SoCal daughter of an immigrant mother and many friends from many different places, I instantly felt connected to Jane who reminds me of a dear childhood confidante. This is no doubt thanks to the immaculate portrayal by Bridget Kim. Ms. Kim embodies everything that is the picture of a Korean woman trying to adjust to life in a foreign country. Her entire manner is formal and polite, something expected if not demanded of her at all times. When her politeness is juxtaposed by sternness in moments where she needs to take control, you will take heed. Ms. Kim’s performance feels like home in every way possible.
With an incredibly strong script and talented artists to bring it to life, THE HEART SELLERS is a beautiful show. You will find it hard not to love these women and as much as you will be moved you will also laugh – a lot. This is the perfect show for Thanksgiving: rife with nostalgia, good laughs, some indulgence, and so many warm-and-fuzzy feels. This is a highly recommended show to get you through your November.
Click here for more information about the production.
Behind the Curtain Cincinnati 