NO. 11 (BLUE AND WHITE)
McGinn/Cazale Theatre, 2162 Broadway, at 76th Street, (212) 206-1515. Through Feb. 3.
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THE patterns of life in a rich, suburban high school appear to be the theme of Alexandra Cunningham’s new play, “No. 11 (Blue and White).”
The play is designed as an abstract arrangement of power – hence, the Whistler-like title and the work’s odd dramatic shape. The players either sit in chairs at stage rear or sprawl over a midstage bump when they are not up front, discussing the world around them.
Writer/director Daniel Aukin cunningly leads us into this world. Sometimes it seems we are looking back; other times we are in the uncertain present.
It’s sharp, sarcastic and funny: Alex and Reid are the bright, smart, supercool friends who comment on everybody; Danny and Brian are the ordinary, drunk, likable boys; Paige, Tammy and Lindsay are the lovelorn girls.
It takes a while before we realize where it’s going. The first big clue is the presence of Reid’s cold, crisp, chic mother (the sole parent visible). What is she doing here?
Then we note that Jenny, Reid’s official girlfriend, is out of town visiting colleges. So? Then we hear that studly Reid rapes two young women after a dance. The play then becomes mainly about Alex, Reid’s friend: Will she side with her cool pal or these uncool women?
As a play, “No. 11” falls apart. The rape is not really linked to the social satire that precedes it. The big issue becomes, Does Alex believe the charges against Reid? Who cares?
Still, the staging and acting are riveting. Joey Shea does a masterful job as Reid, conveying that certain dry, entitling arrogance. On looking back, we’re not at all surprised at what he did. And Katie Walder as Alex does a nice job as Reid’s social equal.
It’s a smart job, until the point where it isn’t.