I have often been impressed by the quality of the work done at Island City Stage, but nothing prepared me for a production like this. “Light Switch” could be picked up, as is, placed on a Broadway stage, and would sweep the Tony Awards. Yes, it’s that good.
A synopsis of the plot, the story of Henry, an autistic gay man with a passion for 19th-century British literature, and his quest for love and acceptance over the course of 20 years, does not prepare you for the depth of this character study. Dave Osmunsen, the playwright, is gay and autistic, so his script feels true and heartfelt.
Still, so much could go wrong if this play were in lesser hands. Island City’s co-artistic director Michael Leeds directs with a deft hand, never delving into the melodramatic, and mining the gentle humor when comic relief is necessary. He has ably guided his ensemble, not a weak performance in the bunch.
But this show really rests on the shoulders of its lead actor, Gage Callenius, as Henry, a young autistic gay man. As young as he is, he’s already managed to win a Silver Palm Award for his performance in The Last Yiddish Speaker at FAU TheatreLab. He should clear some shelf space, because he’ll be on the short-list for every acting award in South Florida for this performance. He’s heading to NYC shortly after this play, so get your tickets now, so you can say, “I saw him when…”
The rest of the ensemble is equally strong. Irene Adjan is spectacular as a mother, both frustrated and proud of her son. Larry Toyter, as Henry’s best friend and roommate, is a joy, and his underwear modeling scenes made the front row sit up erect. Eric Gospodinoff, as the antagonist, is wonderfully seductive. Luis Roberto Herrera, in multiple roles, brings a distinctive personality to each.
Robert Wolin’s set deserves a mention, not only for its versatility (it is a dorm room, apartment, upstate cabin, Henry’s home, and a restaurant, among others), but for its creativity. It wasn’t until intermission that I realized all the components were oversized books. It’s subtle, yet helps bring us, unconsciously, into Henry’s world.
A stellar production all around, highly recommended.
Light Switch
Island City Stage
2304 N Dixie Hwy, Wilton Manors
954-928-9800
IslandCityStage.org
Through June 14
