My overall impression
Encompassing the value of fresh work in Hollywood and pushing the boundaries of the classic play play form, “The Pens Shall Have Their Day” is an outstanding piece written and directed by Lemley Gouger. The casting by Stephanie Phillips is spot on as the female lead (played by Mary Rachel Gardner) quite believably resembles the male lead, and the Anima character’s human form (played by Brian Allman).
Performing this piece requires energy, stamina, quick wit and strong character work- all of which Ms. Gardner put forth with a ferocious stage presence. Ms. Gardner essentially created three unique characters: that of Anima, a quasi-rendering of Alfred’s (Mr. Allman) subconscious and his inner voice of challenge; Nana, a figment within Alfred’s imagination of his own writing; and her own riff on Alfred himself, visible when others entered their space and Anima had to remain locked in his headspace. Ms. Gardner and Mr. Allman often acted in unison, and even at moments of disarray they carried eachave other’s mannerisms.
Overall, as the Fringe Festival goes, patrons are searching for new stories that push the boundaries of conventional theater available elsewhere. This was a great preview of the wonderful future ahead for this play. Audience members who felt any catharsis know that this was smart, twisted, hilarious and weird in such a touching way that only two more performances is not enough!
