BWW Reviews: ON THE NATURE OF DUST from NCTC

Fledgling theater group New Century Theatre Company is presenting its current show at ACT's Falls Theatre with the world premiere of company member Stephanie Timm's new play, "On the Nature of Dust".  And while a tad preachy at times, the show makes me wish that half of the new emerging voices in the theater community (both in Seattle and abroad) were as engaging and fresh as Timm.

This touching and at times hilarious story follows Mother and Daughter Shirley and Clara Bliss as they navigate through tough issues such as evolution vs. creationism, Clara growing up, Clara's new boyfriend, Bernie, and oh, did I mention that Clara recently devolved into an ape?  Timm deftly uses humor and wit to tackle heady subjects that we all must face but with a ridiculous bent.  The absurd reality of the whole thing reminds me of the work of Christopher Durang (especially his "Miss Witherspoon") and makes me extremely excited to see what else will come from the mind of Timm.

But even the best play cannot survive on its own.  So luckily Timm and director Kathleen Collins have assembled some brilliant local talent.  Company founders Michael Patten, Betsy Schwartz and Amy Thone are joined by Benjamin Harris and Brenda Joyner to create this fantastical world.  Patten and Schwartz are delightful as Clara's Pastor and biology teacher who keep running into each other only to end up almost to blows over their differing views of the world.  Harris and Joyner are adorable as two teenagers only just discovering who they are when they are forced to also deal with Clara's "condition".  And Thone is stunning as Clara's under ambitious mother who is barely able to hold anything together, let alone deal with a daughter who keeps changing before her eyes.  Her never once over the top portrayal of this all too unlikeable character was subtly endearing.  And through Thone's portrayal, you cannot help but feel for her.  A truly thoughtful and honest performance.

There's really not much I can say about the show without giving too much away.  Collins brings together these wonderful actors and manages to tell a well thought out, well constructed story.  The set by Etta Lilienthal is practical and gorgeous all at the same time.  Really, it was just a fascinating and entertaining night at the theater and a welcome change from your ordinary family tale. 

This is only the third show from this exciting new company since they debuted in 2008 with "The Adding Machine" and then followed it up in 2009 with "Orange Flower Water" (both of which I'm still bitter that I missed).  But if this new work is any indication, the evolution of Seattle theater is very safe in the hands of these passionate artists.

"On the Nature of Dust" plays at ACT's Falls Theatre through May 30^th.  For tickets or information, contact the ACT box office at 206-292-7676 or visit them online at www.acttheatre.org or www.newcenturytheatrecompany.org.

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