Fabulation or Re-education of Undine
, at the Hudson Theatre Backstage is a strong staging of the consistently insightful human work of two-time Pulitzer Prize winner, Lynne Nottage. Directed by and starring the very talented Hadiza Hinish, this production offers an epic examination of New York City's working underclass culture with a talented cast of actors playing multiple roles.
Undine, played by a very sharp Hadiza Jinish, is a successful African American publicist living in Manhattan. When her green card hunting husband takes her money, she is forced to return to her former life in Brooklyn, and to deal with her working-class relatives. From there Undine's life flies out of control in a sort of epic downward spiral. A bevy of characters pop up to aid this journey with chameleon-like character work. It appears at times, each of the 5 supporting actors that make up the remainder of the ensemble are responsible for at least 3 characters each. Through Ms. Hinish's direction, each actor's transition between characters is smooth and clear. Notable performances include an effervescent Christine Twyman, A dynamic AT Branch, a powerful Reshma Gajjar, a fun and shining Sura Contin and a passionate but also dangerous Adriel Arenas.
Lights and sound are focused yet simple and minimal. This production is enlightening, sad and yet somehow uplifting. Enjoy the work. The talent offered here is a joy to take in.
Runs
Fri, Aug 25 - Sun, Sep 17 Fridays & Saturdays 8:00pm; Sunday 3:00pm
Tickets: https://www.savcatjunglecat.com/
$40 General Admission
$25 for Students w/ I.D.
SAG/AFTRA Members use code 410