Sofia JoAnna and Maya Knell (Photo by Annie Lesser)
Hollywood Fringe at The Broadwater
Reviewed by Deborah Klugman
Closed
In Orthodox Jewish tradition, a mikvah is a ritual bath where women are required to dip once a month after their monthly menstruation. The law goes all the way back to Leviticus, the idea being to transform a woman from a state of impurity to one of purity, whereupon she is suitable for bringing new life into the world. It’s part of a patriarchal tradition that views women primarily as a vessel for giving birth (Those who wish to argue that this is a simplistic interpretation are free to do so.)
Emmy Weissman’s play transpires in a mikvah in New Jersey where two young women, friends from childhood, meet each month to indulge in fantasies about pop star Bruce Springsteen while fulfilling the commands of their faith. Chava (Maya Knell) is a few years older and already married, with two children. Aviva (Sofia JoAnna) is a bride-to-be, curious about what lies ahead for her in marriage, specifically in the bedroom.
Their sessions take place under the watchful eye of Rachel (Rachel Wender), an arch conservative matron who likes hewing to the rules and disapproves of their frivolity.
The play starts out filled (a bit over much) with silliness, deriving its comic dynamic from the gap between what we would expect from observant Jewish women — serious mindedness — against whom these women reveal themselves to be. They are giggly fans of a rock star and their language is as profane as that of any secular young person intrigued with sex and “hotness.”
After a while, however, the story grows darker, as hidden events in their lives emerge. This is where the play really becomes interesting as it comments on the role of women in orthodox Judaism, and (for me) within religion in general (exceptions acknowledged).
Directed by Brian Eckert, the production’s strength lies in Knell’s consistently truthful turn as Maya, which becomes even more important as the play’s meatier themes emerge. But JoAnna, (whose internet bio underscores a background in comedy and dance) fashions an ebullient persona for her character that’s lacking in layers. Often she directs her lines out to the audience rather than addressing her fellow actor.
Scenic designer Benny Pitt’s blue-and-white patterned replica of the mikvah’s bath edifice serves the story well by furnishing various levels and platforms for the actors to perch or otherwise nimbly cavort on. A brief musical intro with strings (sound by Jimmy Mura) serves up an apt ethnic ambience.
Hollywood Fringe at The Broadwater, 6320 Santa Monica Blvd., Hlywd.; Closed
