Written by Dean Taucher, a long-time Hollywood production designer (Manhunter, Weekend at Bernie’s and Law & Order), Movies TV Mayhem is a frantic balancing act.
The story is set during the taping of an industry podcast as three colleagues work their magic at the microphone, talking with podcast voices to listeners, but when the mic is turned off, they rant, complain, accuse, and become friends again. All in 90 minutes.
( l to r ): Grant Neale, Oneika Phillips, and Jason Donovan Hall
This all works because of the dynamic performances of the three stars: Jason Donovan Hall grounds the play with an understanding of the other two characters’ strengths and weaknesses, Grant Neale is constantly in motion, effortlessly moving between the podcast characters assigned to him while planning his next writing projects.
Oneika Phillips is the powerhouse of the show; as the boss she keeps her two partners in line. Both strong and vulnerable, she sends messages about the treatment of women in the entertainment industry and reveals a memory that is particularly poignant. The three have a bond that will never be broken no matter how much they snipe at one another.
( l to r ): Jason Donovan Hall, Oneika Phillips, and Grant Neal
A major reason for its success is the confident direction by Richard Caliban who understands comic timing and how to utilize the intimate set to convey the messiness that goes on behind the scenes, with the polish talented actors can bring when the mic turns on. A play of this kind can feel forced, but in the hands of the skilled Caliban, it feels lively and spontaneous.
There is a lot going on, such as the friendship of these colleagues, their experiences in their past roles, how they can shift from entertaining their podcast listeners to discussing their next project. As the play moves to its conclusion, it is easy to want more from these three.
Theatre Row, located on West 42nd Street, is a testament to the arts and the artists for its ability to showcase experimental and new works, and is the perfect location for a play that discusses all three: movies, tv and lots of mayhem.
Performances through May 9.
Top Photo by MJ Hanley-Goff
Other photos: Edward T. Morris
