Opening with a remarkable reflection connecting theatre to the human heart, a bare stage shows signs of life once again.
Potomac Theatre Project (PTP/NYC) opened their virtual summer play series earlier this month with Lunch, a clever show that unconventionally explored the art of conversation. Directed judiciously by Cheryl Faraone, Standing on the Edge of Time waxes both political and poetic in conversation as it explores the bleak yet hopeful state of the world through a selection of works from different authors.
Standing on the Edge of Time is the second of three summer virtual plays presented by PTP/NYC and continues through July 27. Viewings are free and donations are encouraged. This show was filmed adhering to Covid guidelines, runs approximately 90 minutes, and has mature themes. Click here for more information, how to view the show, and how to support PTP/NYC’s mission.
From the haunted balconies of an old, empty theatre, even the dead wrestle with their wild, melancholy, and world-weary experiences in Mac Wellman’s Crowbar. This segment provides the perfect framework leading into various works that delve into contemporary issues from freedom, frustration, road rage, and relationships to downsizing, grief, sex, and paranoia.
Though each segment is written by different authors, its engaging format provides a flow that rarely veers off course. The show boasts poetic and timely musings such as Mornings at the Lake with Madison Middleton and Spell of Motion by Stacie Cassarino with Stephanie Janssen featuring some beautiful outdoor cinematography as well as haunting James Saunders’ Next Time I’ll Sing to You with Tara Giordano. Though the majority of Standing on the Edge of Time is thought-provoking, these quieter segments provide respite from the production’s heavier topics and satirical themes.
Some highlights include Dominique Morisseau’s relatable and occasionally humorous Skeleton Crew, the zany and unique ideas presented in David Auburn’s What Do You Believe about the Future, and the surprising facts revealed of history repeating in Constance Congdon’s Tales of the Lost Formicans.
The cast portray a myriad of roles, but apart from Crowbar, do not seem like they are playing particular characters for the most part. The lively cast seems like a semblance of individuals exploring contemporary issues, fears, and unique ideas of the future.
PTP/NYC’s Standing on the Edge of Time continues streaming through Tuesday, July 27. Click here for more information. Please note there is a final segment following the production’s credits. PTC/NYC will present their final virtual summer show, A Small Handful from August 13-17.