author: Lilou Von Kokoro
Friday night was cold, raw and blustery, but as I entered The Strand Theatre, I was warmly welcomed by Producer Elena Kostakis. I wasn’t sure what to expect but let me tell you— this was not just a performance; it was an experience. Interactive would be an understatement! To quote their program, “Welcome to the immersive production of alight, Sweet hearted.”
alight, Sweet hearted included both food and direct interaction. But if you didn’t want to accept any of the food or have any direct interaction, all you needed to do was politely shake your head ‘no’ or hold up your hand. The experience begins in the lobby with richly colored fabrics draping the walls. Then, without any announcement, the youthful spirit of Hansel— played by Kay Black— enters the room and instantly connects with the intimate setting as well as the small, curious audience.
Grace-embodied Gretel, played by Dominique Solomon, flows into the room and without skipping a beat, the synergy begins. As the show progressed, the performers would guide you through the theatre, giving gentle direction, including where to stand and sit comfortably. So to tell the truth, this was a difficult review to write. Why? Well, because I just want to GUSH. Seriously…yes!
So much can be said, but then the accidental spoiler might slip out. To prevent a spoiler spillage, I will gush in a general manner. The minimalism was brilliant in regard to having just two performers. I truly believe that if there was an “ensemble” of sorts, it would have been too distracting.
I will confess that my absolute favorite parts were the “dream/sleep” sequences— absolutely mesmerizing. Take the Lighting Design of Amy Rhodes, the sound produced by Mo Oslejsek, the delectably and carefully thought-out food provided by Zeke’s Coffee, and not to mention the well-contrived moments of Black and Solomon… all of the senses stay attentive and heightened throughout the performance!
Director Karen Li’s vision is magical to say the least, and her partnership association with Assistant Director Griffin DeLisle, the cast, and the entire production team is magnificent. It has been quite a while since I’ve seen anything like this. alight, Sweet hearted is an experience, not just a show. You could go see it more than once and experience something different each time.
Do not miss this sweet temptation; it was a real pleasure being able to go on their opening night.
Running Time: Approximately 80 minutes with no intermission
alight, Sweet hearted plays through April 21st 2024 at the Strand Theater— 5426 Harford Rd. in Baltimore, MD. For tickets call the box office at (443) 874-4917 or purchase them online.
