Table 17 - Off-Broadway

The ebb and flow of a failed relationship is the basis for the sporadically funny play, Table 17.  Jada (Kara Young) and Dallas (Biko Eisen-Martin) were once engaged, but the passionate rapport eventually imploded.  Now, two years later, Dallas has reached out to Jada for drinks at a swanky restaurant.  Will their “date” lead to a rekindling of the love they formerly had…or not.

 

Table 17 can, at times, be heartfelt and humorous.  There are shared amorous memories and painful remembrances, but the talented cast and superb direction by Zhailon Levingston cannot gloss over the ordinariness of the situations.  At a slight 85-minute run time, the show feels longer.

Biko Eisen-Martin and Kara Young in Table 17.

Ms. Young, always a delight to see on stage, generates the most laughs with her edgy, neurotic, and honest performance.  Her body language – a simple nod here, a quick turn there, speaks volumes.  Biko Eisen-Martin brings a fully developed portrayal of Dallas to the show.  He is introspective and forgiving, jumpy and anxious and, in flashbacks, a good-time, partying soul.  The third member of the cast, Michael Rishawn, portrays three characters – a feisty, no-nonsense restaurant server, a overly self-confident airline steward, and a spirited bartender – all with flair and finesse.

Michael Rishawn and Kara Young in Table 17.

 

Playwright Douglas Lyons incorporates monologues and breaks the fourth wall with characters interacting with the section of table seating audience members (sleek cocktail tables occupy the orchestra area with the remaining patrons sitting in raked seating above).  He brings a good ear for dialog, but for all the machinations and short vignettes, the concerns, the differences, and quarrels still comes across, overall, as unexceptional.  Levingston, at least, is able to fashion these elements into a well-staged production that constantly varies the tone and tenor of the play. 

 

The Scenic Design by Jason Sherwood, with the glossy interior of the bistro, huge disco ball hanging overhead, is one of the pleasures of seeing Table 17.  Ben Stanton’s Lighting Design provides a moody ambiance and Devario D. Simmons’ Costume Design is urban contemporary chic.

 

Table 17, playing at MCC through September 29.  Click here for dates, times, and ticket information.