Review of “The Hummingbirds”

Edition Eighty-Eight- Week Eighty-Eight:

Written by: Jacob West

Garret Jon Groenveld’s dark comedic drama “The Hummingbirds” immerses audiences in a dystopian future where meaningful work is scarce, and the ever-present threat of terrorism shapes daily life. Recently staged at The Chain Theatre, this production, directed by Kim T. Sharp, features standout performances by Francesca Ravera and Leonardo Gómez, who skillfully bring this unsettling narrative to life.

Set within a bleak unemployment office, the play follows two counselors tasked with assigning dubious and often perilous jobs to the long-term unemployed. These roles are met with dissatisfaction and fear by the clients, reflecting a society where the harsh motto “If you can walk, you can work” reigns supreme. The oppressive atmosphere is compounded by an ongoing war and the omnipresent threat of terrorism, creating a world where emotions are suppressed in favor of cold efficiency and sharp humor.

Francesca Ravera delivers a riveting performance as a counselor who begins to unravel emotionally following a terrorist attack on a nearby establishment. Her journey culminates in a powerful monologue, where she laments the loss of a safer, freer world, contrasting starkly with the present dystopia. Ravera’s ability to convey deep pain, nostalgia, and grief is nothing short of captivating, making her character’s transformation one of the play’s most poignant aspects.

Leonardo Gómez is equally compelling, portraying the other counselor with a chilling calmness that adds to the play’s tension. Gómez’s character, revealed to have been spying on Ravera’s character from the start, underscores themes of betrayal and paranoia. The chemistry between Ravera and Gómez is palpable, intensifying the emotional impact and enhancing the play’s exploration of distrust and desperation.

Kim T. Sharp’s direction is instrumental in shaping this powerful production. Having previously directed Ravera in four other plays—Espresso by Lucia Frangione, The Way We Get By by Neil LaBute, Constellations by Nick Payne, and Blackbird by David Harrower—Sharp clearly has a deep, collaborative working relationship with the actress. This familiarity and mutual understanding are evident in the seamless, nuanced performances and the cohesive vision that Sharp brings to “The Hummingbirds.”

The minimalist set design by Emily Hao-Yun Hsieh, along with Jason Lee’s evocative sound design and Zee Hanna’s striking lighting, effectively creates a stark, oppressive environment that mirrors the characters’ bleak reality. This design team’s work enhances the overall atmosphere, immersing the audience in the dystopian world of the play.

“The Hummingbirds” challenges viewers to reflect on the value of personal freedom and the dehumanizing effects of a society that prioritizes productivity over individuality. Sharp expertly balances the dark humor and dramatic tension, delivering a thought-provoking experience that resonates long after the final scene.

In conclusion, “The Hummingbirds” is a compelling production, anchored by stellar performances from Francesca Ravera and Leonardo Gómez. Their chemistry, combined with Kim T. Sharp’s adept direction and the play’s poignant themes, results in a gripping and memorable theatrical experience.