Submission with Jonathan Grof

[skynyc]

I had a three show week this week, (after almost a no-show September,) and can recommend Submission by Jeff Talbott being presented by MCC at the Lortel on Christopher Street. While not perfect, the play itself is very thought provoking, so see it with someone with whom you can discuss it after.

There are implausible moments added for dramatic affect, but all in all, the performances are good, and the creative use of sets (and the ubiquitous Starbucks decor) is fun and effective.

As a young, white, gay playwright who has written a play about an African American family in the projects, Grof's appeal is completely evident here. Submitting his work to a famous new-play festival under an assumed name, he is in a quandary what to do when the play is accepted. And his questionable decision to hire an African American actress to "play" the playwright for the rehearsal period provides the plot. Rutina Wesley, (recently killed off on True Blood), plays the actress with skilled nuance.

Race, Racism, Homophobia, Class, Language and the "ownership" of certain unappealing words are some of the many topics touched upon.

Again, see this with friends and then go curl up in a booth, or at the bar to hash it out.

[Rod Hagen]

I really wanted to see this. I hope it's extended/moved.