Southern Rep Theatre and National New Play Network teamed up to produce an exhilarating and engaging play that was performed at the University of New Orleans Robert E. Nims Theatre. Colossal, a playwright written by Andrew Hinderaker and directed by Aimee Hayes, is an entertaining story of a former athlete trying to find the strength and purpose to move forward when his past and memories keep him trapped. The star football player has a tragic incident that becomes life changing and he battles with himself, as well as loved ones instead of accepting the tragedy and moving on. His new life is a struggle and as a result, he takes the approach of denial and hatred toward the people around him, letting the past hold power over him.
From the moment you step into the theatre, the actors are already in character waiting for the show to start. The football players are running drills and the coach is screaming and yelling. The audience would think that they are actually witnessing a football practice. Once the time clock strikes zero, the play commences and my heart begins to race and my eyes are locked awaiting the following scenes. The play was divided into four quarters, like an actual football game, and each quarter held significance. In the quarters, the main character, Mike, played by Tobias Forrest, would have a revelation moving him one step closer to the truth and helping him accept his new life so he would be able to move on and take control of it. The cast is phenomenal, and while the play is occurring a flood of emotions overwhelm you including happiness, excitement, sadness, and even passion.
"All the staff and actors worked extremely hard to put this show together and their hard work was displayed in an exceptional way."
The young Mike, played by Ross Britz expresses his passion for his love interest Marcus, who is DC Paul, as well as his love for football. Mike showed the audience that football is a form of art and dance, and not just a game of pain and suffering. During halftime, a dance number, as well as a band solo, was constructed to display that sports can be an example of an art form. Jeffrey Gunshol and Lester Richard, the choreographers, put their precious time, blood, sweat, and tears to show the importance and relation to sports and art. All the staff and actors worked extremely hard to put this show together and their hard work was displayed in an exceptional way. Tears and a grand applause were given as the fourth quarter came to an end. A standing ovation even brought a smile to my face because the play was a total success and the message was received.
Colossal is a play for a wide range audience and I would recommend people take the time to see it when it comes to a theatre near you. A beautiful outing with a tailgate to start you off that provided food and drinks, then following a delightful game that will tap into your artistic insight and bring you joy while sparking an intoxicating conversation.
