Blackbird - Theatre Review



By Harrison Held

I attended the terrific opening night of the intense, dark drama "Blackbird" by David Harrower held in the MET Theatre's  cozy Great Scott Theate. Blackbird is the first production from director Don Bloomfield's DBA Studio and is a winner.

The two leads, Cali Fleming and Michael Connors give wonderful performances in this bleak tale about a lovely 27-year-old woman named Una who seeks closure with Ray. Fifteen years earlier when she was 12 and he was 40, Ray initiated an inappropriate relationship with Una. Ray served time in prison for his crime and paid the price -- he destroyed his life, his reputation and his livelihood. Una, the willing underage victim also spent the last 15 years of her life in a prison. It has been hell for both of them. The piece could also very easily be called "When People Make Grave Mistakes" and is definitely worth seeing.

The play takes place in the shoddy, garbage strewn staff room of the place where Ray has found acceptable but meager employment. Una has found his photo online and tracked him down. The story is very intense and very poignant -- Cali Fleming and Michael Connors both give exceptionally moving performances. The material is dark and sexually graphic and is not for children or the faint of heart.

The title "Blackbird" stands for jailbird in Scotland where playwright David Harrower is from and where the play is set. Ray is truly remorseful for his actions as is Cali. Ms. Fleming has some truly difficult, emotionally charged scenes in this disturbing and heart-breaking piece, giving a wonderful performance, as does Mr. Connors. Kudos to lighting designer Donny Jackson who sets just the right mood.

For tickets and more information visit www.blackbirdhollywood.com or call 323-960-4412. To learn more about award winning director Don Bloomfield's DBA Studios visit www.dbastudio.com.

Posted By Discover Hollywood on September 11, 2017 12:16 pm | Permalink