Ashland Contemporary Theatre opened their annual Moonlighting Series this last weekend with this year's rendition, Moonlighting 2017: Go Rogue. Go Rogue features short plays from the Rogue Playwright's Circle, three of which are fully produced and three of which are staged readings. The playwrights of such plays are Mark Saunders of "Playthings", Cynthia Rogan of "Give", Jeannine Grizzard of "Emmeline Pankhurst", Bob Valine of "The Other Side", David Copelin's "Quite Contrary", and Molly Tinsley of "It Is What It Is."
The short plays are directed by Cat Gould, Jeannine Grizzard, Michael Meyer, and Peggy Rubin and have an ensemble cast with ACT alumni, Karen Douglas, Cat Gould, Jeannine Grizzard, Michael Meyer, Mabrie Ormes, and Judith Rosen, with ACT fresh faces, Alex Bringer, Nicholas Madtson, Russell Mitchell, and Elizabeth Suzanne. The show also features narration by Lia Rose Dugal, also an ACT alumni.
The show starts with the adorable "Playthings". Nicholas Madtson gives a spot on performance of GI Joe and binds the show and the other characters helping to sustain the strength of the story. Alex Bringer sparkles on stage as Babs while Mabrie Ormes warms our hearts as the lovable Teddy.
Give is the next story to unfold with a thought-provoking and motivational story. The cast, Alex Bringer, Karen Douglas, Cat Gould, and Elizabeth Suzanne, each give strong, passionate, and honest performances which heightens the interest in the story and characters. Elizabeth reveals an honest and heart-wrenching performance and Karen brings an air of the comedic honesty to this raw story. It is Cat who shines with a riveting performance, the connecting force that guides the other characters through the story.
Jeannine Grizzard's "Emmeline Pankhurst" is a powerful message of eternal perseverance in fighting for one's cause. Grizzard gives a truthful solo performance and shines beautifully under the stage lights. It is clear that she cares deeply for the character as well as the message.
Bob Valine's "The Other Side" is brought to life beautifully by the excellent talents of both Jeannine Grizzard and Elizabeth Suzanne. Jeannine brings a sense of comedy to the story which helps Elizabeth's character learn to trust again. Elizabeth moves the house to tears with her honest portrayal of her character, which may be to date this actress's best Rogue Valley performance. She is both truthful, brave, and real, which helps the powerful message of love everlasting become more tangible for the viewers.
Next up is David Copelin's "Quite Contrary". ACT newcomers Russell Mitchell and Nicholas Madtson play off each other well with honest comedy and both appear to truly understand their characters. Its Judith Rosen and Michael Meyer who carry the story forward through their exchange ranging from comedic repartee to pathos. The show ends with a beautiful prayer sung over the audience.
The last show is Molly Tinsley's "It Is What It is" starring Karen Douglas and Mabrie Ormes. Once again, Karen Douglas gives a heart-felt, truthful, and sometimes comedic performance but this time its Mabrie who shines in her role. Mabrie's work is both surprising in its moving simplicity and a touching performance, which is one of the finest of Ormes roles to date.
Moonlighting has one final weekend. Friday at 3 pm at Grizzly Peak Winery in Ashland, followed by a Saturday evening show at 8 pm at the Ashland Community Center, and a closing matinee Sunday at 2 pm at the community center as well.
