This 2024 Pulitzer Prize-winning, psychological play by Eboni Booth and brilliantly directed by Logan Vaughn, explores the elements of being human.
Kenneth is a lonely man who is somehow hindered from holding onto a steady job. His current position is at a bank called, “Primary Trust” (double meaning). Here Kenneth’s accounting skills are favorably noted until he loses control of his temper and his insecurity persists.
Although not addicted to drugs or drinking, Kenneth spends most of his free time at a bar conversing with an imaginary friend named “Bert.” Along the way we meet a variety of colorful, concerned characters leading to Bart’s departure and Kenneth being forced to face reality.
The play is essentially a monologue of the mind. Because Kenneth’s brain runs on an express track, a startling “KA-CHING!” effectively signals us of his sudden changes of thoughts and emotions. The dialogue is interesting and contains sparks of amusement throughout.
Giving inspiring performances are: Alphonso Walker Jr. as Kenneth and Lance Coadie Williams as Bert. Excellent, multi-talented performers are Jasminn Johnson who plays Corrina/Wally’s Waiter/Bank Customers and Greg Stuhr is Clay/Sam/Le Pousselet Bartender. The entire technical team contributes greatly to the mood-provoking scenes.
The night we attended, the audience sat spell-bound and rose in one body to express its appreciation of this wonderful production.
