photo by Chip Eliis

photo by Chip Ellis

Your PopCulteer is still nose deep in Joelanta video and photo editing, but I did take some time out tonight to catch Kanawha Players’ production of William Mastrosimone’s searing play “Extremities.”

This is an intense emotional drama which uses the framework of rape and revenge to examine the human qualities of justice, mercy, and forgiveness. At its heart is a chilling role reversal as an attempted rapist finds himself beaten, tortured, and imprisoned by his intended victim.

This production is briskly paced and powerful, with focused direction by the team of Sheila Kerr and Ginger Basham. Penny Maple is outstanding as Marjorie, the victim turned inquisitor. Gary Lanham turns in a challenging performance, portraying Raoul, the villain turned victim in the piece. The cast is rounded out by Carrie Kirk and Michelle Goins as Marjorie’s conflicted and confused roommates.

“Extremities” is an intense drama with lots of adult language and situations. This is a great production that presents the difficult material in a daring and well thought out manner. The show can be seen at Kanawha Players Theater on March 22, 28, and 29 at 8 PM and Sunday, March 23rd at 2:00 PM. For more information, visit Kanawha Players website.