BWW Reviews: World Premiere of DYLAN WENT ELECTRIC at Miners Alley Playhouse

Set in 1969, Dylan Went Electric follows seven characters' interactions in Sully's Tavern, a bar in Greenwich Village. Although he wasn't yet alive to experience it, Colorado playwright Josh Hartwell seemed to really understand the time period, its art and the types of artists who made it.

Damon Guerrasio plays Norman, a songwriter with an instinctive charm, perfectly underscoring the mood of the chill beatnik bar with his acoustic guitar and Dylanesque vocals. These skills draw in Gina, a hippie wanderer played with effervescence by Lindsey Pierce, who finds solace in Norman's artistry. Eventually, they begins to see rifts as these two delve deeper into their pasts.

Karen Slack nails the impeccable accent of Czech waitress Petra, adding a bit of humor with her brash attitude. Edna, an aging feminist, is portrayed with a sharp tongue and wit by Erica Sazin-Borrillo. Drew Horwitz is Phil, a likable communist bartender who occasionally chimes in with earnest remarks. Much of the first act is simply observed by comic book artist Bartholomew, played by Isaiah Kelley, but he presents a compelling dialogue about heroes. Bar owner Morris, played by Leroy Leonard, doesn't get much of a moment until the second act, when he delivers a powerful monologue about his homosexuality and involvement with the Stonewall riots.

What's electric about this production has more to do with its characters' dynamics. At some points, the tension seems to rise too quickly, but it's never done unconvincingly. It seemed like toward the end, one argument would end only for another to begin, however ultimately ending in a brilliantly executed battle between the show's leading lovers.

The pacing of the show kept a production full of dialogue interesting, thanks to direction by Jim Hunt. One of the most refreshing parts was the inclusion of a live local band following intermission, which also served as the featured music act in the scene.

The set, designed by Kyle Scoggins, set an excellent mood, and I was constantly engaged in the multiple levels of the wide stage. The bar felt like it had been there a while. I loved the use of the upstage entrance with the window. The costumes, designed by Greg West, weren't too outrageous and fit the bar's bohemian atmosphere nicely.

Like a classic folk song, Dylan Went Electric takes you on a visceral journey through an unforgettable period in time. The show runs now through October 19, playing Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 6 p.m. To purchase tickets, call (303)935-3044 or visit www.minersalley.com.

Lindsay Pierce and Damon Guerrasio

Karen Slack and Drew Horwitz

Damon Guerrasio