“Untitled Vampire Play” Is A Bloody Good Time, And More…
By Wes Hessel & Cate Rees-Hessel
Lookingglass Theatre is known for it’s innovative, unconventional productions, and “Untitled Vampire Play” is certainly no exception. Leave it to the “Profound Players of the Pumping Station” to take the resurging vampire megatrend and turn it into something with bite. By that I mean sharp commentary peppered with dark comedic genius, hitting on all the trope cylinders, a world premiere penned pricelessly by Kevin Douglas.
It’s boy falls in love with girl, brings her home to meet the family, “oh, by the way, she’s a vampire”, but have no fear, Mom’s a Chicago PD detective and they’ve heard everything, right? His father is good for all the Dad jokes, groans included at no extra charge, but seriously his parental units are a bit concerned. Meanwhile, back on the job, his mom is tracking an apparent serial killer with a taste for something warm and red…
The staging makes great use of a metropolitan neon skyline against the Gothic interior of Val the vamp’s home (did we mention her online gaming celeb sister/roommate or the prodigal brother who isn’t sorry for what he’s done?). Moving pieces on the set give new meaning to pop-ups. The fourth wall is broken organically, with entrances and exits from multiple points, including stairs from the balcony. The shadowy, moody lighting and just enough “what was that?” sound effects (you never see the bats but you can feel their presence) add to the eerie atmosphere.
Props are well used, including a humorous appearance by a juice bottle, and the placement of crime scene tape. There is definitely strong language and mature themes, but they are intrinsic to the story and the characters. The only part some may find a bit gratuitous is when “feeding” is happening – it should be noted that the vampires involved in this are clearly morally in the wrong and their choices catch up with them.
In their work, the actors are bringing it: Cynthia Kaye McWilliams’ Alicia and Kareem Bandealy’s Louie are excellent as Dom’s mom and dad. Ms. McWilliams’ depth as both the hard core officer in charge of a disturbing case and distressed mom, uneasy about her son’s girlfriend, is palpable and real. Mr. Bandealy’s fun dad is hilarious and credible, right down to the Chicago sports team attire, while the undercurrents of care and concern show. His doubling as the vampire hunter is fabulous, especially considering the wide diversity between the two parts, very funny (wait ‘til you hear him introduce that character’s name), yet serious in his characterization. He is on stage in this form the least amount of time, but completely memorable in the performance. Cynthia and Kareem together deliver great laughs doing those embarrassing parent things. Also, look for the hilarious romp with the runaway popcorn and dad’s slip of the knife while chopping vegetables.
Courtney Rikki Green is very believable as the over-confident registered nurse and love interest Valerie. Rose (Jin Park), the sister, is desperately trying to distance herself from Val in more ways than one, with very little luck in doing so – a sincere build by Ms. Park of her conflicted character. Walter Briggs gives a riveting performance as the seemingly stereotype arrogant vampire brother Roderick, comedic yet believably sinister – a great example of making a “conventional” role realistic. And Jordan Arredondo gives a flawless performance as Dom. His comedic skills are superb, and his dramatic moments touching, with a raw emotional intensity; he is versatile and a pleasure to watch. All of this is pulled together admirably by Devon de Mayo’s daring and deliberate direction, giving rise to the entire cast’s impeccable comic timing, as well as believed drama from each player.
As always, Lookingglass gives us an invigorating event that everyone should experience. The lobby even has plastic vampire teeth in various colors for a photo opportunity in front of the backdrop. Bakery items and beverages are available, along with themed merch and souvenirs.
Ultimately, this theatrical masterwork could be said to be about choices and consequences: the complexities of relationships, respecting one another’s feelings and convictions, being honest with others and ourselves, recognizing the path we choose comes with responsibilities and repercussions. Perhaps the “Untitled” is because we put our own name on what we take away from this bold and thought provoking play. But if you don’t make a move to www.lookingglasstheatre.org before July 12th, the sun will rise too soon on you…
This review is dedicated to the fond memory of Kaelyn, who would have loved this show…
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