Review: JENNIFER, WHO IS LEAVING at Urbanite Theatre

Nan, working alone on a cold winter’s night at a local donut shop, juggles tasks with the grace of a circus performer. Her husband’s calls provide a touch of comedic relief as he bumbles around searching for his elusive car keys. Nan's patience, though worn thin, endures with an exhausted yet loving tone, continuously reassuring him with a heartfelt "I love you too".

As the door swings open, a rush of winter wind invades the cozy shop, bringing in customers adorned in layers upon layers of winter wear. The memory of harsh winter winds is a distant one for us Floridians, where such moments are mere tales of the past. Oh, the relief!

But beneath the surface of this seemingly mundane scene, the tension of the winter night and the everyday struggles of the characters are poised to unravel, revealing the intricate threads of human emotion that weave this narrative together.

The bond among women caring for men shines through, shedding light on motherhood and the often-overlooked unpaid labor of females. A poignant soliloquy midway emphasizes the gradual shift from gratitude to taking women's work at home for granted. This marks the genesis of a woman's role in the household, depicted through protagonist Nan in her accustomed routine, contrasted with Jennifer reaching a breaking point, unable to bear the perpetual disregard any longer.

In the midst of tense moments and brewing angst, occasional bursts of uproarious laughter serve as the perfect antidote. Picture this: a lively soundtrack playing in the background suddenly takes center stage as a group of women joyfully belt out the lyrics to a beloved classic tune. It's a scene that resonates with all of us, inviting us to envision ourselves partaking in such carefree revelry when confined indoors, simply reveling in the pure joy of shared laughter and good company.

An eventful 70-minute rollercoaster awaits you in the captivating world of Urbanite(now a donut shop, which we are a part of)! Brace yourself for a whirlwind of emotions as you witness the incredible action unfold before your eyes. At the heart of it all is the talented Summer Dawn Wallace, the founder and Producing Artistic Director of Urbanite. Portraying the character of Jennifer, Wallace embodies a delicate and unassuming persona, yet underneath lies the fiery spirit of a Phoenix ready to emerge when provoked. It's a true delight to behold Wallace's remarkable acting skills in action, showcasing a range of emotions with finesse and strength. Get ready to be mesmerized by the magic she brings to the stage! Supported by the small but powerful cast, we find out exactly why Jennifer is leaving!

Jennifer, Who is Leaving by Morgan Gould, in its Regional Premier, is at Urbanite Theatre until December 1st. Tickets for Matinee and Evening shows are available at https://www.urbanitetheatre.com/jennifer-who-is-leaving

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