Review: UNDERGROUND at 59E59 is Clever and Engaging

"Is it possible to win at Tinder?"

by James in Underground

The US premiere of Underground, written by Isla van Tricht and directed by Kate Tiernan is now onstage at 59E59 Theaters though Sunday, July 2nd. This is a humorous, engaging show with very broad appeal. It brings the phenomenon of online dating to the stage. Underground is part of the annual Brits Off-Broadway festival of plays at 59E59 Theaters.

In Underground, Claire and James have been in the same places at the same times, but it takes the Tinder dating app to bring them together. It's questionable if the two millenials are a match. James is an easy-going type and Claire tends to be cynical. After an awkward first date at the local bar, they take London's night tube home. The situation becomes strange when the underground breaks down with only them and another sleeping man in the car. Because their cell phones have no charge, Claire and James have no idea how long they have been stuck underground. As some ominous announcements come through the address system, the couple becomes anxious but also better acquainted.

The three-person cast does a great job of bringing this clever story to life in the theater's intimate space. Their portrayals of the characters are spot-on. They include Michael Jinks as James; Bebe Sanders as Claire; Andrew McDonald plays Steve, an affable bartender, and the Man on the tube.

The Creative Team includes original music and sound design by Jude Obermuller. The Production Team includes producers Paul Virides for Shrapnel Theatre and Hartshorn-Hook Foundation; Associate Producer is Andy Thick. The AEA Stage Manager is Whitney M. Keeter.

Underground is an appealing, thoughtful depiction of internet dating. It is a play that metro area audiences will surely enjoy.

Underground runs for 70 minutes with no intermission. It will be at 59E59 Theaters (59 East 59th Street, between Park and Madison Avenues) for a limited engagement through Sunday, July 2. The performance schedule is Tuesday - Thursday at 7:30 PM; Friday at 8:30 PM; Saturday at 2:30 PM & 8:30 PM; and Sunday at 3:30. Tickets are $25 ($20 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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