Southern Rep has a hit on their hands with The Totalitarians, making its National New Play Network Rolling World Premiere at Mid-City Theatre.
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The play is written by Peter Sinn Nachtrieb whose other credits include award winning shows BOOM, BOB, Hunter Gatherers and Colorado. This four person comedy is a fun romp through the political scene as we see campaign manager Francine Jefferson played by Jessica Podewell take a candidate from obscurity to the top position of the state of Nebraska.
That candidate Penelope Easter is played brilliantly by New Yorker Judith Hawking. Hawking is hysterical, campy, over-the-top and commands a presence whenever she is on stage, stealing many of the scenes. Rounding out the cast is Leon Contavesprie as Francine’s doctor husband Jeffrey Jefferson whose marriage is jeopardized by his wife’s newfound success, and Ben Carbo as Ben helmii, one of Jeffrey’s patients.
There is lots of back biting, sexual dalliances, political intrigue and yes, murder. Kenneth Prestininzi does an excellent job bringing Nachtrieb’s satirical view on politics to life. The audience cannot help but notice many similarities between Penelope Easter and a real life famous female candidate Sarah Palin. The play moves quickly with great pacing and many truly funny scenes. The cast gives their all on stage having fun with the characters and providing patrons an entertaining theatrical experience.
The Totalitarians runs at Mid-City Theatre through February 23. For tickets or information, go to www.southernrep.com or call 504-522-6545.