I saw this at Seattle Public last month and it was one of my favorite productions this season. Rosie Narasaki does a fantastic job not only teaching her mostly-Western audience about a lot of likely unfamiliar history in a fun and non-patronizing way, but of crafting an engaging narrative with well-timed humor and pathos; excellent pacing that knows just when to linger in a moment and when to bounce forward; and witty, nuanced characters who sometimes make questionable choices even when they mean well.

I actually saw this production a few nights ago. It is beautiful - funny and poignant, Narasaki depicts both the close bond that can develop in female friendships and the distrust that can tear them apart. For dealing with historical figures, the characters are modernized and relatable. I was laughing, then crying, then laughing again. Congratulations!

So fun. So compelling. So heartbreaking. Rosie Narasaki has taken an absolutely fascinating piece of history and has transformed it into an absolutely fascinating piece of theater! UNRIVALED is a delightful theatrical romp that sneaks under your skin, disarming you in the best way. World: produce this, please!