Of Government 

Reviewed by Dana Martin 
Son of Semele 
Through April 1st 

Do you have health care? (I have health care!) Do you have anxiety? (I have anxiety!) Do you distrust the government? (I distrust the government!). Son of Semele is calling for your response with their newest play, Of Government, by Brooklyn-based playwright Alexander Borinsky. In broad swipes, it explores a variety of ways the government fails its citizens, particularly women.

It opens with a musical skit of “The Little Mermaid,” the story of a young woman who wants to strike out on her own, despite the danger, setbacks and discrimination she might face, and despite what she will lose. The presentation feels quite childlike, the costumes made from paper plates, found objects — silly, homemade and presentational. The rest of the play is a series of short scenes depicting women in trouble — economically, physically, emotionally. Each character feels uncomfortable with her circumstance and reaches out to her neighbors and community for help. One woman loses her job when her school is closed. Another needs money for Canadian citizenship in order to obtain free healthcare for her unborn baby. Another engages in a less-than-desirable relationship in order to get herself out of debt. Despite the heavy themes, the play is staunchly light-hearted and optimistic.

The ensemble has real acting chops and finds depth and complexity in a short space of time. Christine Avila is trustworthy and authentic as Barb, a teacher in small town Montana who treats her students like her own children. Olivia J. Fox delights as Joan, a chatty woman who initiates a co-op in her small community. Hazel Lozano endears as Heidi, a curious and quietly intelligent young woman who aspires to become the county commissioner of her small town. Jessica Salans is excellent as dangerous and troubled Tawny, an addicted and out of control young woman desperate for change.

Director Kate Motzenbacker creates a warm and inclusive atmosphere and finds numerous ways to include the audience (there’s even cake, y’all). Pithy songs and audience call-and-response are peppered throughout, led by musical director Brenda Varda, who exudes the warmth and energy of a kindergarten teacher. Set design by Dorothy Hoover puts the action in an elementary school classroom, which re-enforces the childlike atmosphere. Lighting design by Barbara Kallir is minimal and effective.

Of Government finds subtle and kind ways to suggest that we must depend upon and uplift one another through relationships and action. Though a variety of storylines are explored, none resolve. We never see the success or failure of the character’s efforts or decisions, Ultimately the play itself feels unfinished. Do you want answers? (I want answers!) Do you know how the story ends? (…).

Sons of Semele Theatre, 3301 Beverly Blvd., Los Angeles; Fri.- Sat., 8 p.m.; Sun., 5 p.m.; through April 1st; sonsofsemele.org.; Running time: 80 minutes with no intermission.