Branched – Location, Tickets, Reviews
Boasting the tagline “A Comedy with Consequences,” InViolet Repertory Theater’s Branched, written by Erin Mallon and playing at HERE Arts Center, is just that: a dark satire about a serious subject matter.
The uptight Tamara Jenkins rules her family with an iron fist. Her husband Martin wears a permanent smile and speaks in a constantly upbeat tone (because “good mood is a choice”), their 5-year old son Benjamin practices his violin at every available moment, and all three of them adhere to a calendar that dictates their conversations, games, and even the parent’s weekly “recreation.” Soon enough, things begin to crumble: their new baby is born half-plant, half-human; Martin has an affair; and Benjamin, witness to the affair, begins to act out.
Maxamoo
Branched is funny and also very strange. The writing is quick-paced and the actors are fully committed to their exaggerated and grotesque characters. A special shout out must go to Michelle David, who is excellent as the 5-year old Benjamin.
Not every choice made by playwright Erin Mallon or director Robert Ross Parker ultimately worked for us. Some isolated gags felt forced, and some points were made a little too often. But for the majority of the time, Branched is hilarious, enjoyable, and even effective.
Public Opinion
The audience that attended the performance was clearly engrossed in the production. Sadly, there’s less action on the Twittersphere — maybe after official opening.
Have you seen Branched? What did you think? Comment below or tweet us at @maxamoo.
Critics’ Reviews
NYTheater Now
Go. Laugh. And don’t be afraid to be upset by the consequences
Theater Pizzazz
“Branched“ is certainly not for children. However, adventurous theatergoers should relish every moment of this terrific production.
TICKETS
$18 (click here for tickets)
DATES
Performances through March 8, 2014
LOCATION
HERE Arts Center
145 Avenue of the Americas
New York City
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RUNNING TIME
1 hour 30 minutes, no intermission
CAST & CREW
(partial list)
Written by Erin Mallon
Directed by Robert Ross Parker
Featuring Tara Westwood, Andrew Blair, Michelle David, Marguerite Stimpson