Review: Enlightening and Riveting I AND YOU By The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis

There's something truly remarkable about playwright Lauren Gunderson's work I AND YOU that's difficult to explain without spoiling the experience. So, I'll tread lightly. Just know that you should definitely check out this terrific new work that gives anyone who watches it insight, not just in how our kids live their lives these days, but also into how the power of Walt Whitman's "Leaves of Grass" can still resonate with a modern reader who has the perception to see how it speaks to all of humankind in its grace, beauty, and wisdom. This is a brilliantly engaging show that's a perfect fit for the intimacy of the Emerson Studio Theatre, where The St. Louis Repertory is presenting it. This is a fresh and invigorating production, and it's absolutely mandatory that you see it!

The story is set in St. Louis, where some teens are living the type of online existence that we're all becoming more and more accustomed to. But, Caroline is different, she's also been dealing with the need for a liver transplant due to a genetic defect. At this stage she's even physically unable to attend her senior year of high school. That's what makes Anthony's appearance so special, and unexpected. He comes into her space unaware of her peculiarities and eccentricities, gained from a lifetime of dealing with her health problems, and he thrusts a homework project into her life. It's a poster and presentation on Walt Whitman, and though he may be a gifted basketball player, his artistic skills are noticeably lacking. Caroline is defensive, and unwilling to take part, but something makes this relationship continue. Anthony eventually charms her, and Caroline loosens up, and then...Well, you'll have to see what happens next for yourself.

Danielle Carlacci delivers a powerhouse of a performance as Caroline. Her every line is barbed with combative jabs at Anthony, and yet he keeps on coming back for more. Carlacci is a fascinating firebrand to watch, and when you see her open up, and let him, and in doing so let us into her world, you begin to comprehend the anxiety and justifiable insecurity she's going through. But, she's a fighter, even when gasping for breath after an energetic workout of "Great Balls of Fire." She's well matched with Reynaldo Piniella as Anthony, who arrives from out of the blue, still wearing his sweats and uniform top from an earlier game that was interrupted. Piniella comes on a bit strong at first, but it's understandable given the less than welcome reception he's received. But, it's certainly a delight to watch him utilize the words of Whitman in order to break down the walls that separate the two of them.

Director Jane Page takes us into the minds of a teenage girl and boy, honestly, openly, and with considerable expertise. You can't help but be riveted from start to finish. Eric Barker's scenic design is amazing, and cleverly filled with the minutiae that Caroline obsessively photographs. Marci Franklin's costumes fit the characters well, and so does Rusty Wandall's sound design.

The Repertory Theatre's of St. Louis' current production of I AND YOU is the very definition of great theatre; it will make you laugh, cry, and think, and it will accomplish all of these things extremely well. I dare you not to be moved by this wonderful and enlightening show. It continues through November 15, 2015.

Photo credit: Jerry Naunheim, Jr.

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