By Ashlei Havili Thomas
SAFE, a new play by Chelsea Hickman at An Other Theater Company in Provo, gives the audience something both needed and breathtaking. New works of theater can be many things, but the most terrifying is unexpected. The reputation of An Other Theater Company allows those who come to see the play a sense of security; their consistently great performances and choice of literature break boundaries in a county that can feel stifled and stale to those who don’t fit its conservative mold. There is something exciting about going to a show where the premise is provided, but there are no preconceived notions, no favorite performances to compare it to, and experience the work only through the actors and words before you. SAFE delivers a completely new experience that does not disappoint.
SAFE follows two women who come to Brigham Young University to study. Aubrey, a straight arrow from Utah Valley develops an unlikely fast frienship with Sam, a relaxed California girl. The story follows them over several years, told in a non-linear format. Both marry men, but nothing is as it seems. SAFE is a story of self-discovery and its sometimes painful road, with a gratifying, peaceful finish.
While the women are the rightful focus of the show, both supporting actors provide necessary elements to the performance. Tyler Fox (Jensen) and John Valdez (Ethan) are responsible for most of the set changes in the show. While both have few lines, their movements and transitional dance scenes provide needed insight to the audience.
Maddie Smith as Aubrey provides a beautiful character arc in a piece told out of order. Her clearly-acted path to discovery has the audience silently cheering her on.
Laura Elise Chapman as Sam is the catalyst of the show. Her grounded, powerful deliverance and raw acting style move both the audience and play forward. While all four actors are rarely on stage at the same time, their cohesion and unity in telling this story are unparalleled.
The bare bones set design by Kacey Spadafora and Taylor Jack Nelson is a hallmark of An Other Theater Company, with a beautiful mural and backdrop of old, well-worn pieces of furniture, which are reminiscent of collegiate housing. Six blocks work as the functioning set and are used well to create many different settings. Likewise, the costume design by Ash Knowles uses a few key pieces to define each character while keeping the design fairly simple. The intimacy choreography and directing of Liz Whittaker really shines in the lighting designed by Aaron Gubler. Whittaker creates a calm and detached environment that encapsulates the organic, grounded performances of the actors.
While the play is extremely relevant to the area and its people, it’s better geared toward older teens and adults. Sexual abuse is addressed in the play. The theater space is located on the upper floor of the Provo Towne Center Mall, close to the food court. SAFE is a revelation of relevance and catharsis for many in this area, and a necessary piece for audiences throughout the state. The play is one this reviewer hopes will become a staple of this community and open minds and hearts to the heartache of many that feel marginalized around us.
An Other Theater Company Presents the World Premiere of SAFE by Chelsea Hickman.
Provo Towne Center Mall, 1200 Towne Centre Blvd, Provo, UT 84601
Dates: Jan. 24-25, 31, Feb 1, 7-8, 14-15, 2020 7:30 PM, Feb 9 5:00 PM
Tickets::$12-15
www.anothertheatercompany.com/
SAFE Facebook Event Page
An Other Theater Company Facebook Page
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