BWW Reviews: HotCity Theatre's Disturbing Production of THE WINNERS

The basic premise of The Winners, a winner itself of the HotCity Theatre Greenhouse play competition, is really just a twist by playwright David L.Williams on the old idea about money buying (or not buying) happiness. However, there's something genuinely discomforting going on here that disturbs me, and not just as a theatre patron, but as a parent. I don't want to give away too much, because spoilers are always unwelcome in reviews, suffice to say that my enjoyment was hindered by some problematic elements that are key to the work. But I'd be a hypocrite if I said I didn't like it because the characters are unlikable or the story bothersome, because there are plenty of successful (and justly famous) plays that have the same kind of issues. Like a horror movie that makes you squirm in your seat uncomfortably, The Winners is disquieting stuff, but that doesn't mean it isn't worthy of discussion, or viewing.

When Cassie and Kurt win the lottery, which in this case comes to some 337 million dollars, they decide to splurge on an Asian escort because it fulfills a bisexual fantasy of Cassie's to spend an evening of pleasure with someone who resembles a girl she had a crush on in college. That seems simple enough, but things get complicated as the evening progresses. You see, they have a two-year old named Shirley, and neither seem particularly eager to answer her cries of distress emanating from their baby monitor. You question their commitment, at least Cassie's, because she's verbalizes her lack of motherly instinct, and you wonder if they're really cut out to be parents. This is where things get sticky. If money can buy you almost anything, could it also buy your freedom from such a responsibility?

Shanara Gabrielle is very good as Cassie, and though you may come to abhor some of her behavior, she delivers a performance that will linger in your mind, if not your conscience. Shaun Sheley is also quite good, nervous at first as the escort arrives, but eventually settling into a level of comfort with the sexual escapades that follow. It's when Cassie proposes her idea of "adoption" that he takes on a more serious tone that's certainly fitting given the circumstance. Sasha Diamond is a jewel as Tiffany/Tara, who's smart enough to look for an edge over these two since she's in their employment for the night, and, to a degree, at their mercy for a good deal of the time. The three work well together, making this a tightly knit ensemble piece.

Marty Stanberry directs with a sure hand, but you're never quite aware of what direction this play is going to take, even though that seems to be by design. Stanberry gets strong performances from his cast, and makes the most out of this material, which starts off almost comically before the tone abruptly changes in the second act. Jame Holborow's scenic design is a clean representation of a middle class household, neatly kept and nicely appointed by prop master Meg Brinkley. Sean Savoie's lighting brings the action into focus with clarity and simplicity.

I was bothered by this play, I mean who in their right mind would send an escort up to check on their bawling infant? But, I was also reminded that I've been disturbed by similar works before, and the fact that they can get under your skin is a feat in and of itself. So, see The Winners, and prepare yourself for a shocking look at human nature and what "evils" money can bring with it. The play continues through September 24, 2011 at the Kranzberg Arts Center.

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