(Photo by Yannick Godts)
Reminds us of: An outstanding bottle episode of a prestige TV comedy, or the most moving and least manipulative possible version of an after-school special.
Flop, Fine or Fringe-tastic?: Fringe-tastic.
“It’s gonna be a long 11 hours,” one character says early on in this funny, poignant slice of life, which is entirely set within its titular journey. But contrary to that ominous warning, the minutes whiz by, thanks to a snappy script by Rachel Lynett and energetic performances from a tight ensemble. Lauren Patton plays Lexa, a woman in her mid-20s who isn’t ready for kids but finds herself pregnant by her boyfriend Seth, who the audience never sees. Lexa embarks on a cab ride from Texas to New Mexico with her half-sister Minnie (Dominique C. Brown); the pair bond with each other and their driver Kate (Renae Erichsen-Teal), who somewhat conveniently relates quite intimately to her passengers’ experiences and conflicts.
A plot-light story like this one relies on subtle creative choices, which Abortion Road Trip boasts in spades. Flashbacks, signaled by a whooshing noise, unfold immediately to the left of the central set, which consists of four folding chairs and a mock steering wheel. Much of Kate’s emotional journey plays out only on Erichsen-Teal’s expressive face as she reacts to the uncomfortable conversations and provocations coming from the backseat. Patton and Brown demonstrate believable chemistry that shines through even when the characters don’t see eye to eye. Thanks to sweating the smaller stuff, the story’s emotional impact lingers long after the final bows.
Note: After my showing ended, a Fringe staffer told the audience that anti-abortion protesters outside Logan Fringe Arts Space had been yelling at attendees as they walked in. It appears the protesters plan to continue throughout the festival. Regardless of your stance on abortion, though, the show is very much worth seeing.
Where to See It: Logan Fringe Arts Space, Trinidad Theatre on July 15 at 7:30 p.m., July 18 at 5 p.m., July 20 at 9:15 p.m., and July 23 at 4:30 p.m.
See here for all of DCist’s 2017 Capital Fringe coverage. All shows are $17, with a button ($7) required for entry.
