BWW Reviews: InterAct Theatre's THE EXIT INTERVIEW Shows Talent and Versatility

Having been laid off from his university faculty position, Bertolt Brecht scholar Dick Fig (Dan Hodge) is forced to endure an exit interview with Eunice (Cheryl Williams), an eccentric and ultra-religious administrator.  When faced with his personal pet peeve, small talk, Dick dives into discussions on science and religion that culminate in an encounter with a masked gunman.  Product placement, ex-girlfriend drama, offensive cheerleaders, political agendas and a visit from a priest combine in this comedic and abrasive new play.

Written very much in line with the style of Brecht, The Exit Interview by William Missouri Downs includes constant interruptions that break the theatrical illusion by directly communicating with the audience. 

The stars of these interruptions, and really, of the show itself, were Jennifer MacMillan and Meghan Malloy who played a plethora of varied roles, the best and most memorable being two cheerleaders who guide you through the show in their own special way. 

In a play about a seemingly endless list of topics and themes that has so little of a concrete story line, the production ends up being carried by the talent and versatility of the cast.  In this unique style of theatre, we get to see the actors as actors in addition to seeing the characters they portray. The show becomes an experience, one that will challenge, evoke lots of laughs, offend some and inspire others.

Performances of The Exit Interview by InterAct Theater Company run through November 11.  For tickets and more information, visit interacttheatre.org.

Photo Credit: Kathryn Raines