by K. Primeau~

Mutineer Theatre Company has done it again. After a successful run of their inaugural 2009 production, “Lie With Me,” the young company presents Ditch, a hilarious and intelligent dissection of the self-destuctive psychology we inevitably espouse in romantic relationships. From the pre-show announcement to the play’s final punch, the refreshingly raw new piece breathes playful life into painful neuroses, proving new works can play an invigorating role within the theatrical canon.

A play I feel Charlie Kaufman would applaud, Ditch finds humor and revelation in its self-reflexive form, allowing metaphors physical manifestations and comedy a chance to indulge in the absurd. As the action jumps from present to flashback to dream sequence, we watch Beth and William do the relationship run-around- breaking up, falling in love, falling out of romance and into the mundane, and every uneasy step in between. Meanwhile, Elizabeth and Bill cling desperately to their every move, planting seeds of doubt and distraction into Beth and Williams’ ’subconscious’. In a reveal that’s far too rewarding to rehash in a review, the audience understands that the opponent is often oneself in battles waged over love.

After easing into the world of the play, the foursome skillfully marches between changes in tone, leading the audience on a journey that crosses the lines of comedic stereotype and thoughtful psychological perspective, and back again. Written by the multi-talented Taylor Coffman (female) and aptly directed by Jon Cohn (male), I found the introspection to be more relative to your personal relationship status than gender. My single date nodded his head whenever Bill knocked Beth, whilst I could sympathize with the grueling uncertainty William felt with every decision. We both were frustrated by the length of the first act (the open heart surgery scene was when I first started to drift), but perhaps the form was meant to comment on the tediousness of over-thought, under felt relationship decisions?

The production design team deserves extra kudos for their inventive use of puppets, a shifting proscenium, and sidewalk-abandoned furniture. The many doors, mirrors, and windows lent to a sensation of dissocia while providing a dynamic and convertible playing space. The foam core props and split couch effectively captured the innervating sensation that nothing feels right (or real) when we aren’t right with ourselves.

If you get a chance, this play makes a great date – it’s charming, smart, and receptive to constructive criticism. Fill out a survey and help Mutineer continue the development of the piece. They might not take your advice, but chances are they’ll think you’re “Awesome”!

Ditch is preformed Fridays and Saturdays at 8 pm and Sundays at 7 pm through February 28, 2010

The Lounge Theatre is located at 6201 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90038, between Vine and Gower. Ticket prices: $18.00. Discounts for students and seniors.

For reservations call: (323) 960-7787 or online www.plays411.com/ditch