Review: I AND YOU at 59E59 is Excellent and Poignant Theater

I AND YOU is now on stage at 59E59 Theatres through February 28th. Don't miss the New York Premiere of this award-winning play that is meticulously crafted by renowned playwright, Lauren Gunderson. Superbly directed by Sean Daniels, the two-hander stars Kayla Ferguson and Reggie D. White. I AND YOU is an original and absorbing play that is an important work of modern theater.

In the show, Caroline, a teenager who has suffered all her life with a liver ailment, hasn't been able to attend high school for months. Her classmate, Anthony arrives without notice to her bedroom with plans to collaborate on a school project about Walt Whitman's critical use of the pronouns I and you. The pressure is on as the project is due the following day. The two have deeply contrasting personalities that make for a series of captivating and sometimes humorous interactions. Caroline is contentious and artistic, an Elvis fan who relies on tech rather than reading. Anthony is an athletic, outgoing young man, a lover of Jazz and the written word. Caroline initially rejects working with him. But as they begin to examine verses in Whitman's "Leaves of Grass," a bond grows between them as they share thoughts about life and death. So much more than schoolwork brings these two young people together. It is a rich story about growing up, affection, and the ties that can bind humans in wholly unexpected ways.

Kayla Ferguson completely captures the role of Caroline, the self-described "dark" teen with a penchant for photography who has a knack for recognizing "little things." Reggie D. White masters the role of Anthony who is curious, optimistic and sensitive. The two talented actors bring the perfect tone to this extraordinary play.

The production team has done a remarkable job of bringing I AND YOU to life with scenic design by Michael Carnahan, lighting design by Brian Lilienthal, costume design by Jennifer Caprio and sound design by David Remedios.

Get your tickets now. I AND YOU is a play like you've never seen before.

I AND YOU is produced by Merrimack Repertory Theatre in association with Richard Winkler. The show is on limited engagement through Sunday, February 28. It runs 90 minutes with no intermission. The performance schedule is Tuesday to Thursday at 7 PM; Friday at 8 PM; Saturday at 2 PM & 8 PM; Sunday at 3 PM. Performances are at 59E59 Theaters (59 East 59th Street, between Park and Madison Avenues). Single tickets are $70 ($49 for 59E59 Members). To purchase tickets, call Ticket Central at (212) 279- 4200 or visit www.59e59.org.

Photo Credit: Carol Rosegg

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