The Nu Sass Theatre has debuted a new production titled “Fifth Date,” bringing a fresh narrative to the stage while simultaneously harkening back to a bygone era.
Set in a time without smartphones and modern-day dating apps, the play invites audiences into a quaint world where anxiety about romance still prevails, even after four dates.
The narrative revolves around a couple, portrayed by Rebecca Ellis and Steve Lebens, who are not only navigating their budding relationship but also facing the comedic and often harsh guidance from their brash alter egos played by Aubri O’Connor and Terry Heffernan.
These alter egos are reminiscent of the hormone monsters from Netflix’s animated series “Big Mouth,” delivering exaggerated commentary that brings humor to the highs and lows of dating.
The play, penned by Lori Boyd, showcases a scenario where traditional gender roles and dating dynamics continue to influence relationships, despite the characters’ attempts at modern romance.
With references to nostalgic elements from the past—such as compact discs and landlines—the production subtly transports audiences to a simpler period while simultaneously addressing themes that resonate even today.
Throughout the performance, the comedic timing of the alter egos adds layers to the couple’s interactions, providing a unique structure to the unfolding romance.
As they struggle with gender perceptions and dating expectations of the time, the couple contends with societal judgments, especially surrounding the notion of masculinity and femininity as characterized by their alter egos.
One particularly amusing scene involves Ellis’ character revealing her insecurities in a dramatic fashion, which led to an unexpected comedic moment that left audiences in stitches during the opening night.
However, some aspects of the humor in “Fifth Date” may feel outdated, particularly the reliance on stereotypes regarding masculinity and sexual orientation.
Nu Sass Productions has a mission of promoting marginalized genders in theater, so the reliance on humor questioning whether a character is gay might come across as a contradiction to their goals.
The performances of Ellis and Lebens capture the essence of young love, striving to make connections amidst their insecurities.
In a world inundated with conventional romances, the authenticity of their characters sets a refreshing tone, though the pacing and consistency may still evolve as the production continues its run.
Director Lynn Sharp Spears guides the ensemble as they tackle these comedic elements, with hopes that the cast will further embrace spontaneity to enhance future performances.
As the audience gets to witness the awkward yet relatable moments of hesitation faced by the couple, “Fifth Date” ultimately offers a thoughtful reflection on the art of dating, aided by the wild card presence of their alter egos.
With a runtime of approximately 90 minutes and no intermission, the production invites viewers into a world where love collides with comedy in quirky, endearing ways.
In summary, “Fifth Date” depicts the age-old challenges of dating, humorously illustrating how alter egos can amplify the pressures of forming genuine connections.
As its run progresses, there’s potential for the cast to sharpen their comedic timing and fully harness the absurdity embedded within the narrative, leading to even more engaging performances.
The play opens a dialogue around identity and relationships while enticing audiences with a nostalgic yet fresh perspective on romance.
image source from：broadwayworld
