Grace And Subtly Cloaked in Human Connection
I think it’s well established now that I’m a sucker for any type of romantic comedy. That’s fine, I’ll own that. Better Halves could be labeled as a romantic comedy as it explores various relationships and is simultaneously humorous, but the truth is, it’s so much more than that.
Ilana Gordon and Chris Bragg weave an intricate web of characters that all manage to have some sort of tie to newly weds, John and Melanie, whose wedding is the opening scene. Every interaction is clever and intentional. Characters range from Old Country Buffet employees to suicidal girlfriends to competitive Little Leaguers. Each character is introduced with a unique relationship and as the show evolves, we see how those linear relationships twist and turn and intertwine with one another. Video messages to John and Melanie are the common thread that hold every character together by a single degree of separation.
The concept of this show is so simple – human relationships. However, the reality of how to manage relationships and to what detail is arguably the most complicated part of our daily lives. Shards of truth are sprinkled on every scene shedding moments of comedic laughter as well as sympathetic heavy sighs. Plot based sketch show always come with greater difficulty as the audience expects all loose ends to be addressed by the close of the show. Better Halves does this with such subtly and grace, it’s like a gentle shoulder squeeze. The story comes full circle and you leave with a peace of mind and serenity of heart.
I really enjoyed this show and appreciated the attention to detail and intricacy of the story. Better Halves is a beautiful and smart demonstration of honest human relationships of all caliber, class and conduct and I highly recommend it.
Better Halves is playing this Saturday at The Public House Theatre at 10pm.
