WROL—Young Professionals Company (OCT)—SW Portland

 

What Dreams Are Made On

    WROL (without rule of law) is written by Michaela Jeffery and directed by Andrea White.  It runs through March 6^th and is playing at the Multnomah Arts Center Performing Hall, 7688 SW Capitol Hwy.  For more information, go to Oregon Children’s Theatre’s site at www.octc.org/wrol  or call 503-228-9571.  Please note, all Covid protocols in place, such as vaccine cards, masks, etc.

    Who we are and what we become are part and parcel of our dreams.  We have a view of life as we mature that, early on, is usually in lock-step with the majority.  But, as we age, and have our own dreams, a different reality sets in.  Then the question becomes, do we follow our path, or the one that seems to have been set down for the rest of society.  “Ah, there’s the rub.”

    Five teenagers, Jo (Jamie Mack), Sarah (Lili Ireland), Vic (Tam Silverman), Maureen (Alli Jaffe) and Robbie (Darren Sze) are trapped in a post-apocalyptic, alternate reality in which they must survive.  They must deal with legends and myths of this new world or perish.

    They discover a seemingly abandoned campsite of one of the inhabitants of this other world but what does this offer them?  They have their own views of what it takes to exist in this brave, new concept of reality and make no bones about expressing their views on video and to anyone who will listen.  But is anybody listening?  If a tree falls in a forest but there is no one there to hear it, does it make a sound?!

    I can only give you vague hints of this story, for it is up to you to interpret it.  It’s true, we adults have left a haphazard trail of bread crumbs to follow for future generations but I have faith they will decipher the hints and thrive in this future world, for as long as they have each other, they are not alone.  My take-away is this:  Conform or Evolve!  Other views?!

    White has assembled a talented cast to present this world of alternating views and theyare wonderful.  And, a shout-out to Dani Balwin and the Y/P company for tackling in all their shows, diverse and topical issues for their times, for they will be able to learn from this experience and carrying them into their adult lives!  Bravo! 

    I recommend this play and, if you do choose to see it, please tell them that Dennis sent you.

--DJS