One set, two actors and three words describe “I and You”. It was amazing! Better yet…it’s a masterpiece. And Citadel Theatre gets a big pat on the back for playing it.
I was on vacation for the opener and not scheduled to do a review. I had heard some good things about it, so my wife and I decided to see it at the last minute. I was so taken by it that I am writing a (late) review.
“I and You” by Lauren Gunderson is a simple story that keeps growing before your eyes. Caroline, played amazingly by Amia Korman, is a cynical teenager who is battling a serious illness and home bound. She is suddenly visited by Anthony, a fellow high school mate. He barges into her bedroom and scares the bejesus out of Caroline. He, ostensibly, tells her he has been assigned to partner with her in a ‘Walt Whitman’ project. She finds this unbelievable and, in the ensuing minutes, cycles from calling the police to wanting to know more about this mysterious person. Anthony is played by Jay Westbrook. His performance makes you melt.
Their connection slowly develops to the point where they grow fond of each other. They share their musical tastes and feelings about death. As their connection deepens, they unveil secrets to each other probably never shared with another.
Walt Whitman’s poetry acts as a catalyst to launch the storyline. His grammatical use of the words “I” and “you” in his poems merge perfectly into the title and meaning of this play.
“I and You” is directed by Scott Shallenbarger who retired as the Drama Director at Highland Park High School, He 33 year history of working with Teenagers strongly drew him to this Gunderson creation. He does an amazing job with this production.
And, if you enjoy the innocence and growth of these two special teenagers, the surprise ending will accelerate you into a wonderful surreal. You can torture me but I will not disclose this ending to you. Instead, I’m strongly suggesting you see this amazing play.
“I and You” plays through March 23 at Citadel Theatre, Lake Forest. Visit www.CitadelTheatre.org for more details on this and other productions.