Review: SPENDING THE END OF THE WORLD ON OK CUPID at Pear Theatre suggests should live in the moment
Ivette Deltoro, Tasi Alabastro, Tyler Pardini, Tonya Duncan, Samantha Ricci,
and Michael Weiland in Spending the End of the World on OK Cupid.
The online serial dater in me was immediately intrigued by the title Spending the End of the World on OK Cupid being produced at Pear Theatre. I wouldn't be shocked if, when I found out the world was ending, my immediate response was, "Time to open up Tinder." Knowing that I trekked to Mountain View, looking for a good night of social commentary on why exactly I am the problem with modern society, how millennials are glued to their phones, and that I need to live in the moment, bro.
Pear is a quaint little black box venue tucked behind some Silicon Valley offices. The playwright was in the audience. Wholesome.
As hoped, the show was explored, well, living in the moment and pursuing your passions, bro. The script is a good mix of light comedy and deep sentiment, providing a balance of commentary with casual theatre fare.
It took me a minute to warm up to the actors. It was opening night, the comedic timing wasn't always there, and the consistent over-acting wasn't necessary for such a small space. Gradually, the acting and story got stronger, the leads seemed less nervous, and their natural charm was able to show through.
After an interactive intermission, we're back in the show. The staging and set were cute and very Hit List a la Smash. (If you get the reference, we can be friends.)
The show is touching and certain characters charm, but it lacks innovation or depth. You see exactly where the show is going within the first five minutes. The script is young, and there is room for growth. Still, if you're looking for a quaint night out with some local theatre, this is a great option.
The show's central premise certainly is correct. We should live in the moment and not be so in our heads. We should know what we want and go after it.
Speaking of which, I have a Tinder date in five, so... later!
Spending the End of the World on OK Cupid runs through February 17, 2019
Pear Theatre, 1110 La Avenida Street, Mountain View, CA
Tickets: thepear.org or 650.254.1148
Photos: Pear Theatre
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