Review: F THEORY at NJ Rep Shines Bright with Humor and Heart

New Jersey Repertory Company (NJ Rep) is now presenting the World Premiere of F Theory from August 17 through September 24. The play is co-written by Megan Loughran and Alex Trow and enjoys superb direction by Ethan Heard. Loughran and Trow also star in this outstanding two-hander. Executive Producer, Gabor Barabas and Artistic Director, Suzanne Barabas are once again making a top-notch new show available for metro area audiences.

In F Theory, Marianne and Ellie first meet as college roommates. Even though their backgrounds and interests seem worlds apart, they share a sincere friendship. Over time, Marianne gets married, has a child, and develops her anthropological research while Ellie leads a solo life, deals with family issues and builds a career as a songwriter and musician. There is a charming and intimate sisterhood between the women, as they come together regularly to discuss life with its inevitable changes. Yet, that supportive relationship is threatened when Marianne seems to exploit their friendship in her best selling book, "Friend Hoax." F Theory portrays the complexities of human bonds with both humor and heart. Whatever friendships you have in your life, you will recognize the situations and sentiments so well depicted in this engaging show.

Megan Loughran as Ellie and Alex Trow as Marianne deserve high praise for their impeccably crafted play and their spot-on performances. Their characters are dynamic and the actors are so authentic in their roles, you feel as though you are experiencing life's changes right along with them. To round out the story, the Loughran and Trow deftly assume multiple parts. From September 15 to September 17, Phoenix Vaughn will be performing as Marianne.

The design team has done a wonderful job of bringing F Theory to life with scenic design by Jessica Parks; lighting design by Jill Nagle; costume design by Patricia E. Doherty; sound design by Merek Royce press, properties design by Marisa Procopio. The Production Stage Manager is Kristin Pfeifer; the Webmaster is Merek Royce Press; the Technical Director is Brian P. Snyder; the Company Manager is Adam von Pier.

F Theory is a smart, moving story of a lifelong friendship with all of its ups and downs. Invite a friend, or several, and see it while it is on the Long Branch stage.

NJ Rep is located at 179 Broadway, Long Branch NJ. Previews of F Theory begin on Thursday, August 17. Opening night with reception is Saturday, August 19. Performances are Thursdays and Fridays at 8pm; Saturdays at 3pm and 8pm; and Sundays at 2pm. Tickets are $46 ($50 for opening night) and are available at 732-229-3166 or online at www.njrep.org.

Photo Credit: Suzanne Barabas

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