Review: NOBODYS GIRL at NJ Rep is an Excellent Satirical Play

"The only difference between fact and fiction is how you package it."

-Nobody's Girl

Nobody's Girl is now on stage at New Jersey Repertory Company (NJ Rep). This provocative new play is making its U.S. Premiere in Long Branch through September 20th. Written by Rick Viede and directed by Erica Gould, it has a distinctive plot with many layers. Excellent staging and exceptional performances do complete justice to Viede's revealing satire.

In the play, Anthony pens a salacious tell-all memoir titled "Nobody's Girl" and recruits a young woman, Nita to pretend to be the book's author, Currah. Enter Ronnie, an overzealous literary agent, and her assistant Tyrell. These two publishing industry professionals know just what sells. Together they promote the book and make Currah into a pop-culture media sensation. Questions about authenticity and identity create a stunning story that resonates and intrigues.

Jacob A. Ware is ideal in the role of Anthony Donnally, a rather nervous sort, who initially orchestrates the scheme. But when his plot to be a ghostwriter turns against him, he becomes an outsider to the farce he has created. Layla Khoshnoudi masters two individual roles, that of Nita Saleem who assumes identity of Currah. As Currah, the young Iranian immigrant is a natural for fame and fortune but proves to be completely unscrupulous. Judith Hawking captures the role of Ronnie Lowe, the shrewd literary agent who will engineer success at any cost. And it is Hawking's portrayal that is the most humorous. She is an over the top character, cunning and clever. Gregory Haney's does a wonderful portrayal of Tyrell Parks, the showy "queen" and Ronnie's eager assistant. His character shines a real light on true individuality and brings the plot full circle.

Bravo to the production team at NJ Rep for making the scenes in Nobody's Girl come to life with set and props by Jessica Parks, technical direction by Brian Snyder, lighting design by Jill Nagle, sound design by Merek Royce Press and costume design by Patricia Doherty. Jennifer Tardibuono is the show's Stage Manager.

Nobody's Girl has a very unique premise and exposes how people's business dealings and relationships can spin out of control when money and notoriety are at stake. It also depicts the power of social media in the arts. You will be fascinated by the circumstances as they unravel. The play tops off NJ Rep's summer of great theatre.

Nobody's Girl will be at New Jersey Repertory Company through September 20th. The theatre is located at 179 Broadway, Long Branch 07740. For tickets or more information, call 732.229.3166 or visit www.njrep.org.

Photo Credit: SuzAnne Barabas