By Susan Mulford, Boston and Beyond
We can all use a moment to hold a mirror up to our face and take a hard look at what we really are made of. Flat Earth Theatre presents Neil LaBute’s unapologetic play that bluntly addresses what people see when they look at bodies – all bodies! Staged at the Mosesian Center for the Arts, 321 Arsenal St. in Watertown, the story surrounds the smart, sexy, witty and fat, Helen played by Lindsay Eagle who seems to have effortlessly slipped back onto the stage after a two year hiatus. Jordan Lindley portrays Helen’s sweet and conventionally thin, boyfriend Tom.
He has fallen head over heels for Helen, seduced by some quite proven keys for love. Open and honest communication and having a sense of humor. It would seem that nothing could come between them. Even the overt overtures by the Barbie Doll figured, Jeanie, performed by Kristen Heider, will not divert Tom from Helen.
When Jeanie questions Tom as to why he would chose Helen over her, Tom responds perfectly when he answers, “I enjoy her because she is not you.” Directed by the diverse and talented Juliet Bowler, we are increasingly made aware of the shallow standards set by our society.
Via the character of Carter, played by Dustin Teuber, the outspoken and literally crass friend is horrified that Tom is dating, “A fat chick! A huge fat pig!” He blatantly comments about body flaws and takes it one step further with, “fat people, as well as, fags, retards, cripples, old people” are all visually judged. Says Carter, “They scare us because of what we could become.” Tom retorts, “Not everything is based on appearance”. Carter then tells Tom to “turn on the TV” all the while ogling girly magazines, to point out what is acceptable. The constant harassment and intimidation wears heavily on Tom as he poignantly wages war under the eye of popular opinion to decide who deserve a happy ending. To obtain tickets for this thought provoking and perfectly written play, go to www.flatearththeatre.com