A Day in the crib
Written and Directed by Felix Rojas
The Sonnet Theater at The Producers Club, 358 W. 44th Street, NYC
Oct 3rd - Oct 27th, 2024
Watching “A Day in the Crib” felt like sitting on a fire escape, peering into my neighbor’s apartment while sipping a cafecito. This intimate experience unfolded at The Sonnet Theatre (at the Producers Club), where the stage is mere inches from the audience, pulling us into the heart of the action. In this setting, we weren’t just spectators; we were part of the family drama.
When Felix Rojas reached out about his new show, I was thrilled. It had been seven years since I last experienced his work, and I fondly remembered interviewing him about “Growing Up Gonzalez.” Rojas has a talent for crafting realistic stories imbued with humor, vulnerability, and nostalgia. His plays delve deep into the human condition and life’s complexities, all wrapped up neatly in a compelling 75 minutes.
“A Day in the Crib” explores the intricacies of relationships, particularly focusing on high school sweethearts Tony and Laurie as they navigate the challenges of infidelity and parenting their teenage daughter, Holly.
As we meet Tony and Laurie, we find them at a crossroads in their marriage. Laurie is going back to school while Tony works as a doorman, and as communication dwindles, infidelity emerges. Rojas skillfully illustrates the anatomy of an affair: it involves not just the two parties but in this case the child, neighbors, and the weight of past and present relationships. The reveal of the affair is both horrifying and laugh-out-loud funny, highlighting Rojas’s ability to blend humor with heavy themes.
The play also features a poignant subplot about Carmen, a nosey neighbor but who shines as a hardworking single mother. Her drive for perfection and excellence in her son creates a stern yet loving dynamic.
Kudos to the dazzling and diverse ensemble cast, Crystal Johnson as Laurie, Rahul Gajasamharamoorthy as Tony, Maria Belisario as Holly, Rhina Valentin as Carmen, Avery Rodriguez as Edwin, Rob Torres as Officer Hector, and Jesse Cotto as Kiki, who truly embody the melting pot of New York City. The essence of the city is captured in every interaction, reminding us that in this bustling metropolis, you’re either in the mix or a hermit.
“A Day in the Crib” is a joyful exploration of life’s messiness, filled with laughter and heart. Part comedy of errors, part novella, you are in for a treat. Don’t miss it!
Click HERE for tickets.
Review by Malini Singh McDonald.
Published by Theatre Beyond Broadway on October 8th, 2024. All rights reserved.