Reviewed by Michael Edwards
Rogue Machine's "Middle of the World" written by Juan Jose Alfonso and directed by Guillermo Cienfuegos is a night of sharp storytelling, with an enlightening human discussion centered by a brilliant lead performance.
The play starts like a tall tale, quickly splintering into a surprisingly revealing study of an exceptional human relationship. When NYC finance executive, Glenn Joyner, gets into the uber of Victoria Rojas, an easy conversation turns into a deep and lasting romantic friendship, even after the successful exec learns his driver is the suspiciously exiled former president of Ecuador. As problems arise in Glenn's professional life and the reason for Victoria's exile from Ecuador comes to light, we explore a deeper layer of human purpose. A wonderful layer.
Directed with passion, efficiency and pace by Rogue Machine artistic director Guillermo Cienfuegos, the cast moves together in between scenes like a fascinating and very deliberate puzzle design. Featuring Leando Cano, Dan Lin, Jennifer Pollono, the cast is headed by Christian Tellesmar and Cheryl Umana as the two lovers. All are flawless. Particular praise must given to Ms. Umana. Her undeniable charisma and gentle presence truly reveal a beautiful and multilayered character in Victoria.
The multi-media design by Michelle Hanzelova-Bierbauer (photos by Jeff Lorch and Brooke Burton) is transporting and spot on. Sound by Peter John Still and lights by Andrew Hungerford focus nicely on story and pace with simple but beautiful effect.
Produced by Rogue Machine, "Middle of the World" is now playing at the Matrix Theatre through March 4.
Ticket link
: https://roguemachine.ludus.com/index.php