Theater

As the play unfolds, the actors’ nuanced performances shed acute light on the emotional turmoil that pervades “1984.”

Throughout the play, the dichotomy between the young characters and the deeply rooted, traumatic questions they face is underscored by exceptional acting and adept technical choices that push the audience to question themselves.

Offering a compelling reflection of what love is and can be, Berkeley TDPS’ “Wintertime” was as dazzling as gazing up at falling snowflakes.

Upon entering the theater, audiences were immediately reminded of their hometown as Berkeley institutions like The Butcher’s Son and Cheese Board Collective Pizzeria are incorporated into the set.

“I love fantastical things … I love the challenge … Futuristic Afrofuturism to sum it up,” Hill shared. “I think my aesthetic is just finding the beauty in the leftovers and creating a whole new world out of that.”

Rejecting theatrical realism, “Nollywood Dreams” isn’t afraid of a pratfall, melodramatic line readings and fourth wall demolition.

Sethi and Partain not only captured the essence of their characters as individuals but played the chemistry of the enemies-to-lovers pair with convincing ease.

“There is no better tool to cut through barriers and walls we've put up other than telling our stories to one another,” Harris said of his work as an instructor. “There is a power in storytelling for both the listener and the teller.” 

Amidst the turmoil and deception prevalent in the script, SF Shakes and Cal Shakes illuminate the enduring power of love, redemption and the human spirit in this one-of-a-kind performance.

Despite the production’s hiccups, with light lewd humor and clever double entendres, Berkeley Playhouse’s production of “Kinky Boots” is a delight and should not be missed.