Review: SEX WITH STRANGERS at GSP is Excellent Theatre

"You're too young to know I'm too old."

-Sex With Strangers

Sex With Strangers is now being performed at George Street Playhouse (GSP) through March 27th. This riveting play is written by Laura Eason and directed by the Playhouse's Artistic Director, David Saint. The two-hander stars Kyle Coffman and JoAnna Rhinehart in an extraordinary show that is wonderfully staged and performed.

Sex With Strangers tells the story of two very different writers, Ethan and Olivia who meet at a country lodge in the depths of winter. As opposites attract, there is immediate passion between the two in spite of their age difference. Ethan is an egocentric young blogger and best-selling author who shares his sexual exploits with the public as "Ethan Strange." Olivia is an established teacher whose writing career stalled when her first book was not successful. Even with their steamy encounters, there are problems in the relationship. Olivia is reluctant to open up and share her writing and she is disturbed that Ethan has built his career on his sexual exploits. Yet both of them have written serious novels and have a desire for true literary success. You will wonder if it's love or opportunity that connects them. Sex With Strangers is especially engrossing as it not only deals with the couple's unlikely romance, but also talks to the significant of trends in social media, writing and publishing.

Kyle Coffman as Ethan and JoAnna Rhinehart as Olivia master the essence of their roles. Coffman captures Ethan's hipster persona and Rhinehart portrays Olivia with the right blend of allure and maturity. Their excellent portrayals of the two lovers keep the show completely captivating.

The Design Team has done a great job of bringing Sex With Strangers to the GSP stage with scenic design by Jason Simms, costume design by Michael McDonald, lighting design by Christopher J. Bailey and sound design/original music composition by Scott Killian. The production Stage Manager is Cameron Berne, the production manager is Christopher J. Bailey and casting is by McCorkle Casting.

Sex With Strangers will appeal to a broad audience of adults. It is a thought provoking, emotionally charged piece of theatre. The play is recommended for mature audiences only due to adult themes and nudity.

Sex With Strangers is produced in association with Philadelphia Theatre Company, Sara Garonzik, Executive Producing Director and Priscilla M. Luce, Executive Managing Director. Tickets are now on sale starting at $25. Contact the George Street Playhouse Box Office at 732-246-7717 or visit www.GSPonline.org. The Playhouse is located at 9 Livingston Avenue in the heart of the city's vibrant dining and entertainment district with convenient parking and mass transit options.

Photo Credit: T. Charles Erickson