BWW Reviews: The World Premiere of THE NEW SINCERITY at Bay Street

It is always exciting to see a world premiere; to be able to say "I saw it first". In continuing their mission of fostering new works, Sag Harbor's beautiful Bay Street Theatre has selected Alena Smith's The New Sincerity to kick off their 2015 season. And a wonderful choice it is.

The story has something for everyone; it is political, it has an intriguing love triangle, it is smart, and it speaks to a new generation. You will notice that some of the inspiration comes from the Occupy Wall Street protests of 2011 and social media is mentioned throughout.

In the tale, a political journal is being operated across the street from the park where protests are taking place. One of the writers, Rose, portrayed by Justine Lupe, wants to get immediately involved in covering the demonstrations. However, her boss, Benjamin, portrayed by Teddy Bergman, does not think they should... at first.

Ms. Lupe, currently on the television show Cristela, and Mr. Bergman (Peter and the Starcatcher OBC, et. al.) are top notch in their respective roles. This is a more serious character than Ms. Lupe's Maddie on the ABC sitcom. Rose is bookish and, of course, passionate about social issues. Mr. Bergman's Benjamin is the founder of the journal they write for. Additionally, he is engaged and his fiancé is out of the country. Working in close proximity eventually makes Rose and Benjamin develop feelings for one another. So, as you can see, there are several intriguing stories to follow in this one act play.

Rounding out the rest of the stellar cast is Peter Mark Kendall and Elvy Yost as Django and Natasha. Django is one of the hippie protesters and Natasha is an intern at the journal. They bring a lot of the comic zingers to balance the seriousness of Rose and Benjamin.

The set designed by Beowulf Boritt and Alexis Distler - with Heather Ugrina coordinating the props - was also a highlight. The setup of the theatre is unique as the stage and the first row are at the same level and then the seats ascend resembling a mini stadium. Boritt and Distler created the office Rose and Ben use for work with lots of books, a large couch, and rustic table. This is enhanced beautifully with Mike Billings lighting with special kudos also to Brandon Wolcott for the spot on sound. The intimate theatre added to the office ambiance, so you truly felt you were actually in the office with the cast.

And so, The New Sincerity is indeed a great kickoff for Bay Street's summer season as it is surely to be a hit. A great cast and an interesting story make for a thrilling night of theatre.

The New Sincerity is presented by the Bay Street Theatre of Sag Harbor, Long Island, through June 14th. By Alena Smith, Directed by Bob Balaban, Set Design by Beowulf Boritt & Alexis Distler, Lighting Design by Mike Billings, Costume Design by Maria Hooper, Sound Design by Brandon Wolcott, Prop Design Heather Ugrina, Production Stage Management by Jennifer Wheeler Khan. For more information and to purchase tickets, please call 631-725-9500 or visit www.baystreet.org.

Photo by Lenny Stucker. Clockwise from top left; Justine Lupe, Teddy Bergman, Elvy Yost, and Peter Mark Kendall.

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