I’m just back in after seeing the Appalachian Artists Collective production of Lisa D’Amour’s play, “Detroit,” at the Alban Arts and Conference Center. You only have two more chances to see “Detroit,” and you definitely should. This is a spectacular production.
An incredibly talented cast under the direction of Leah Turley brings to life a dark comedy about what happens when a reckless couple fresh out of rehab moves in next to a straight-laced couple who are at a different sort of crossroads.
Adam Bryan as Ben and Marlette Carter as Mary are note perfect as the married couple mired in ennui as Ben deals with unemployment. Tyler Eldridge as Kenny and Mariah Plante as Sharon perfectly capture the essence of slightly delusional recidivist addicts trying once again to start over with a clean slate. Greg Morris makes a brief, but effective appearance as Kenny’s great uncle, Frank.
This is a very contemporary story that deals with the breakdown of interpersonal relationships in the internet age and the unusual bonds that can develop when real-world contacts become motivated by desperation.
The play opens with Ben and Mary playing host to their new neighbors, the fresh out of rehab Kenny and Sharon. As their friendship grows, the situations devolve into a sort of white trash version of “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?”
I cannot stress how terrific this production is. From top to bottom, there is simply nothing to criticize. Some theater-goers may be offended by the very rough language, but it’s all very realistic and absolutely serves the story well. You feel like you are meeting real people. “Detroit” is definitely a strong contender for the most impressive theatre production of the year in West Virginia.
You can catch “Detroit” Friday and Saturday evening at 8 PM at the Alban Arts and Conference Center on Olde Main Street in St. Albans. Tickets are $15 for adults/$10 for students or seniors.
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