The Centaur programming for this year has been consistently strong. God of Carnage was amazing, the Wildside festival was tons of fun, and now regular programming has resumed with In Absentia…and the streak continues!
First of all, I’d like to throw some high praise in the general direction of John C. Dining & Luc Prairie, who did the set design and lighting design for this show. Those are absolutely mind-blowing visuals on display, gentlemen! Now, on with the show!
In Absentia tells the story of a middle-aged woman whose husband has gone missing. She refuses to give up hope and lives within her mild delusions, speaking to her dead husband on a daily basis, and assuming he’s coming back. Her world gets thrown off when a mysterious young man shows up at her door one day, freezing in the cold. The whole story evolves from that point.
Sounds a bit cliché, doesn’t it? Well, it is, but the execution of the story makes up for it. Though the script is quite dense throughout, some stellar acting kept me hooked and entertained, dying to know what would come of the characters. Sure, it was a bit predictable, but it’s a hell of a good show featuring a strong cast and an astounding set. If you’ve got an evening to spare this month, go see this show.
In Absentia runs until March 4th at the Centaur Theatre, and tickets are available here.
Cheers!
-Al
