REVIEW: Hot City Theatre's NEIGHBORHOOD 3: REQUISITION OF DOOM

Seeing Neighborhood 3: Requisition of Doom could serve as a wake-up call, or even a cautionary tale, for some parents, since it examines the addictive qualities and violent nature of certain video games. Of course, it takes that idea to a Twilight-Zone extreme, but that's what makes it so engaging. Hot City Theatre is presenting a superbly mounted production of this intriguing work, and I think it's required viewing.

Neighborhood 3: Requisition of Doom is a video game, but a most unusual one. Gamers hook up online to hunt down zombies in a neighborhood whose layout is a direct copy of the subdivision they live in. Those who play find themselves completely absorbed, exploring their virtual experience through the eyes of an avatar meant to represent their character in the game. But, what if those avatars could break down the fourth wall and enter into reality through a wormhole?

The action is played out as a series of vignettes between various adults and teenagers, and the cast of four cover all the bases here with considerable aplomb. Greg Fenner and Maggie Conroy deliver memorable and distinct performances as each of the various kids from the block. Fenner excels as: a young newbie who's itching to play the game; a troubled gamer who thinks his actions onscreen may have translated into some kind of murderous act on the family pet; and as a brooding loner who's trying very hard to ignore his mother. Conroy is equally good, with turns as: a sexually curious punk girl; a sweet ex-girlfriend looking to recover something personal from her ex-boyfriend's room; and as a goth girl trying to warn her friends of the game's dangerous outcomes.

John Pierson and Pamela Reckamp are very good as the adult figures that appear. Pierson delivers strongly with his portrayals of: a separated Dad dealing with a rebellious daughter; a disaffected Man who's obsessed with manicuring his lawn, and who's more aware of the dire situation than he lets on; and a distraught father attempting to keep his manic daughter under control. Reckamp also makes a favorable impression with nice turns as: a frantic wife putting together an intervention for her alcoholic husband; a woman in denial of her son's indiscretions; and a concerned mother trying to connect with her son.

Chuck Harper's direction is inspired, combining the action and intensity of a video game with the drama you'd expect from such a topical issue. Harper's sound design aids immeasurably layering pitch-altered narration over industrial ambiance to great effect before each scene (or level in the game). Mark Wilson contributes a very cool and starkly realized set that really brings out the gaming influence. Sean Savoie's excellent lighting adds immensely, with some fiendishly clever use of blacklight. Scott Briehan's costumes add the final touch, neatly delineating each character. There's even an FX gag that's executed to shocking perfection.

Jennifer Haley's script is a brilliant piece of social satire, and Hot City Theatre has put together a truly exceptional production that does this play complete justice.

Neighborhood 3: Requisition of Doom continues through September 26, 2009 at the Kranzberg.

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