After becoming a photojournalist for 519 Magazine back in January, has given me the opportunity to see more plays. Having more of a music background, I tend to be drawn to musicals. But I am so glad I have been able to broaden my horizons by seeing plays. If I hadn’t, then I wouldn’t have seen how brilliant *Stop Kiss* is!
*Stop Kiss* is part of Post Productions' second season of shows. The company has brought quality plays to Windsor and they’ve never disappointed. I was blown away by their show “*Doubt*” that was put on in February, but after seeing *Stop Kiss*, it makes me even more excited to see what Post Productions will bring to the local theatre community this season and the ones to follow.
*Stop Kiss* is written by Diana Son. It tells the story of Callie, who lives in New York City as a traffic reporter. Callie opens her home to a friend of a friend named Sara, who recently moved to NYC taking on a teaching job in the Bronx. Callie kindly takes in Sara’s cat, Caesar, temporarily until she gets settled into her apartment. Callie, not knowing anything about Sara, is certain she is going to be a dud, but after meeting and a number of get-togethers, Callie begins to realize there may be something more than just a friendship.
Throughout *Stop Kiss*, follow the relationship between Callie and Sara. You learn about their jobs, ex-boyfriends, and friends. Together they go on a journey of realization of their sexuality. Though their relationship may seem perfect, to others, it isn’t. Unfortunately, there are many people who still do not support the LGBT community. Callie and Sara find themselves in a horrible situation that leaves one injured and one hospitalized.
When I spoke to directors Michael Potter and Michael O’Reilly when they were casting for the show, they said that the girls who play Callie and Sara had to have a connection or the show would not work. Potter and O’Reilly’s pick for the leading ladies was an absolutely phenomenal choice. Fay Lynn (Callie) and Lauren Crowley (Sara) had chemistry that was so believable. It didn’t even feel like I was watching a play, more like I was sitting in the middle of two friends having a conversation.
Every moment they spoke to each other, whether it was anger, fear, or love, was truly captured, and I felt every second of it. Fay is known for performing in plays at Korda Artistic Productions as well as Post Productions. She’s always a joy to watch as she connects so well with any character she is given.
This was my first time seeing Lauren in a play, as she also comes from a musical background. I do hope to see Lauren continue on doing both plays and musicals as she is a very talented actress and a natural on stage.
There was a scene in particular in Act 1 between Callie and Sara that contained no dialogue but spoke so much. Having two actresses with the ability to speak to the audience with no words is incredible.
All of the actors in *Stop Kiss* deserve to be praised. Dan MacDonald played the role of George, Callie’s best friend and occasional fling. His character added a comedic aspect to the show, while also showing a kind and compassionate person when Callie needs him the most. Alex Alejandria (Detective Cole), Cindy Pastorius (Mrs. Winsley), and Matt Froese (Peter) had smaller roles but were pivotal to the storyline when they were on stage.
From the acting, directing, and quick set changes, *Stop Kiss* is the one to see. A truly beautiful show that definitely made me laugh while pulling at my heartstrings. If I had to categorize *Stop Kiss*, I would call it a tragic-romantic-comedy.
Directors Potter and O’Reilly definitely had a vision for *Stop Kiss*, and it showed. Congratulations on a job well done by everyone.
*Stop Kiss* has one more weekend of performances from May 24 to 26 at The Shadowbox Theatre (1501 Howard Avenue). Tickets are available online.
Stop Kiss Cast:
Fay Lynn as Callie
Lauren Crowley as Sara
Dan MacDonald as George
Matt Froese as Peter
Alex Alejandria as Detective Cole
Cindy Pastorius as Mrs.
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