Reno Little Theater’s newest play “The Humans” is perfect for the fall season as viewers follow a dysfunctional family, the Blakes, through their Thanksgiving dinner.
This play was very unique because instead of a linear story plot, it was more of a case study of the family. Each individual character was dealing with their own issues that would arise throughout the course of the dinner.
The set was done really well. The stage was built to resemble a two story apartment, with events taking place upstairs and downstairs at the same time. This created unique conversation dimensions and added more drama to the evening.
There were some slow moments to the performance, but by this time the audience was already invested in the family and curious to see what would play out.
“The Humans” mixes themes of family and comedy with betrayal and horror. At times, the jumps in themes were jarring. The most notable of these moments was with the ending, which left a lot of scratching heads. This sudden turn of events felt out of place with the rest of the play.
However, the one thing that remained constant throughout was the strong family moments. Despite the fighting, the Blakes would always have each other’s backs. Director Chad Sweet said, “The point of the play is no matter what problems you have in your family, you forgive them at the end of the day and get together.”
The events that unfolded were gripping, odd, and heartwarming. You really feel as if you’re a part of the Blake family and partaking in their Thanksgiving meal. With that said, being a part of this Thanksgiving is sure to make you feel better about your own personal one!
The Details
- Web: http://renolittletheater.org/events/event/the-humans/
- Written by: Stephen Karam
- Directed by: Chad Sweet
Dates
Evening Show Dates: 11/15, 11/16 (PWYC), 11/21 (tt), 11/22, 11/23, 11/29, 11/30 @ 7:30 PM
Matinee Show Dates: 11/17, 11/24*, 12/1 @ 2 PM
(tt) = Thirst Thursday- FREE drink with ticket purchase, PWYC denotes Pay-What-You-Can performance, * denotes post-show talk-back
Tickets
- Adults: $25
- Senior/Military: $20
- Students: $15
- Kids 12 & Under: $12
Cast
- Rosie Calkin as Aimee
- Brittany Carpenter as Brigid
- Bob Gabrielli as Erik
- Ryan Kelly as Richard
- Janet Lazarus as Deirdre
- Kathy Welch as Momo