06.25.25 - There's a shifting of plates that occurs here. Both tectonic and relationship based. Greg Romero does it with subtlety and nuance, characters sometimes saying more with no words than with. The silences creating a tension that needs release, much like an eruption would do. The buildup is impressive and the events that occur throughout providing both release and revelation (Roger's reveal, Abbie's later unveiling). All these things both explain and drive further questions. Quite a play.

Greg Romero has the rare gift among writers to be able to convey ideas with as few words or actions as possible and still reach the depths of meaning to everyone watching or listening. I've had the privilege of seeing his plays in readings over the years at the Inge New Play Lab and Valdez Theatre Conference, and each time I have come away informed and inspired. I can only imagine what will transpire when I see a full production of any of his plays, and this one would be on the top of my list.

The way this piece creates intense, compacted meaning is simply breathtaking. So many moments pass in silence and gentleness, with visuals that evoke a raw sort of wonderment. Then there are moments that shock, that bring in visions of man and nature at their most violent. It's going to take me a while to think through what this play is telling me, but it is telling me something elemental and powerful. Astonishing work.