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Show review
By: Alecia Thornton
Theater: The Empty Space
Show: Eleemosynary

"This play is a poignant and eclectic view of three generations of women and their comedic and touching relations.  All three women are exceptional and intelligent and the story races along like a rollercoaster with DVD multi-angle views.

The actors are invested in their roles and bring the story off in a wonderful and witty manner.  They accomplish this with only lights and a few set items.  This show is really cosmetic effect free, special or otherwise.   The dialog was complex and intricate and the actors still appeared very polished.  Everyone in the production was excellent and yet there are a few that stood even from this rarified group. 

Jennifer Sampson (Artie) played the role of the conservative, middle generation and she (Jennifer) had the most evocative, expressive and empathetic representation of the character while still carrying the subtle undertones.  Her portrayal of the stubborn and restrained character fills the viewer with sadness for the character.  This can only be a reflection of the skill of the performer.  The shots of comedy are timed perfectly and not over-the-top.  Her excellent acting brings the emotional content forward (both cheer and challenges) while still allowing the complex story to evolve.

Samantha Gonzales (Echo) did a fantastic job with considerable and complex dialog.  While all the women portrayed strong and highly intelligent (genius) roles, Samantha actually showed her own genius.  She giggled exactly like a three-month old.  She portrayed a young girl.  She did a teen.  She did a young woman.  All this was accomplished without intermission, make-up or costumes.   Especially enthralling was the excellent diction and accuracy with her long dialogues.

The venue, The Empty Space, is a civic theater focused on donations for its existence and the entrance is around in back (in the alley).  This was my first experience with this production and this venue and the layout was a little confusing but efficient and the show was fantastic!

There are two more performances of Eleemosynary this Friday and Saturday, March 7-8, at 8:00 pm.  The show is free, but has a suggested donation of $10.00 for adults.  The information line is 327-PLAY."

Alecia Thornton is a first grade teacher in Bakersfield.