Each season, Ross Alternative Works (RAW) presents an original play by a local playwright. This year’s show, Reservations by Joe Barison is superb! Director Michael Cohen says Barison’s play “hilariously captures the absurdity of artistic aspirations including the highs, lows, the insecurity and lack of acceptance…I am honored Joe has trusted me with his art…I hope we can make you laugh and give you something to think about!”
The play delves into the lives of creative individuals unable to make a living through their artistic pursuits. The story is set in the present, at a hotel in Manhattan. Melissa (Kara S. Poon), the hotel bellhop who is also a documentary filmmaker, shows Alan (an aspiring writer played by Evan Held) to his room. He discovers the hotel is sold-out and since no other hotels have space, the second bed in his room has been mistakenly reserved for someone he has never met–a painter named Gail (TinaTraboulsi). Alan and Gail agree to share the space and as the story progresses, the artists are forced to come to terms with their shared hopes, dreams, pain and despair. Humor carries them and the show through.
Actor Evan Held (last seen in RVP’s fall production of Picnic), Poon and Traboulsi are all a delight to watch. Held’s portrayal is truthful and emotional, while Poon and Traboulsi beautifully capture the essence and nuance of their characters. Michael-Paul Thomsett, Helen Kim, Maxine Sattizahn and David Noll round out this fine cast of actors. Bravo to Michael Cohen for his outstanding direction and kudos to the production team including Lyra Smith (Stage Manager), Michele Samuels (Lighting Design), Michael Berg (Costumes) and Isaiah Tweed (Set Builder).
Reservations runs through February 12 at the Barn Theater, Marin Art & Garden Center, Ross.
Coming up next at Ross Valley Players is Pride and Prejudice, the Musical adapted from Jane Austen’s novel by Josie Brown featuring music and lyrics by Rita Abrams and directed by Phoebe Moyer, March 17-April 16.
Co-written by Lori Wood
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