BWW Reviews: DCTC Climbs to New Heights with the World Premiere of GRACE OR THE ART OF CLIMBING

The Denver Center Theatre Company (DCTC) is proud to present the world premiere of GRACE, OR THE ART OF CLIMBING, a production that pushes the boundaries of theatre as it blends the sport of rock climbing with the story of a woman struggling to face her fears. A staged reading at the 2012 Colorado New Play Summit, this world premiere plays The Space Theatre now through February 17th. A captivating tale of a reluctant young athlete for whom rock climbing is both metaphor and action, Emm struggles with doubt, depression and her demons, as she trains mind, body and spirit for a world climbing competition.

I must admit that I have been excited about seeing this unique concept of a rock climbing play since I saw the staged reading at the Colorado New Play Summit last year, and "Climb Every Mountain" may have been playing in my head as I entered the theater. This show was a visual marvel with a heartfelt and tender plot right at the center of the action. Playwright Lauren Feldman offered us a wonderful story with a script that was sarcastic, witty, and real. This show is perfect for the outdoors loving state that is Colorado and it's sports enthusiasts. This show was an exploration in the process of letting go of your inner demons, and climbing your way back to strength and finding yourself again. It was fascinating to watch the similarities between rock climbing and gaining your independence and self actualization, which is at times an uphill battle. Emm was a interesting character that was complex and full of denial. Her confrontation between her ex and visiting her father were quite intense and emotional. I loved the El Dorado Canyon scene that was exhilarating and brought a wonderful climax that satisfied the entire audience. Just remember that falling is part of the game, but necessary in order to go further.