The use of language and rhythm are always just stunning, dizzying, when it comes to Soltero-Brown. That's on full display here, as the situation twists and spirals in surprising, shocking ways. One notices in particular the evolution and/or devolution of the pejorative, and that perhaps gives a clue as to what is occurring. Or does it? It's what is admirable about the work... it keeps you pondering. It's truly fascinating traveling along this path. Leading to triumph? Ruin? One wonders, marvels.

THE DOG is a first-rate example of the wonder that is Ricardo Soltero-Brown’s dialogue. Always authentic, often absurd, and laced with a sense of heightened desperation. Characters A and B, like most of us, want to be seen, needed, noticed. There’s the unseen titular dog who probably wants the same things and ends up acting out in unsettling ways. There’s so much more to discover than one reading permits. Good thing it’s a fast read. Would absolutely love to see this on stage.

This whimsical and thrilling play proves that dogs are truly man's best friend. Richard Soltero-Brown writes with precision yet still leaves room for exploration. Feelings, like needing to be accepted and needing love, compliment (and contradict) each other at various moments, making the innerworkings of these characters reveal themselves piece by piece throughout the play. This would be a clear standout in any theater company who will produce it.