What kind of a connection could an anthropomorphic parrot with the mouth of a sailor, a forensic photographer with intimacy issues and an earnest competitive puzzle player possibly make?
Featherbaby, the latest play from local playwright David Templeton, aims to tell us.
Described by director Skylar Evans as a “mostly family friendly” comedy (mostly, because of the feisty titular character’s foul language), the show is in its world premiere run in the Condiotti Theatre at the Spreckels Performing Arts Center in Rohnert Park through Sept. 14.
New works can be tricky, as there is no built-in audience, but Templeton’s plays have been championed by Spreckels’ artistic director Sheri Lee Miller for years, and audiences can expect something original. Unlike Templeton’s sweeping sci-fi saga Galateá, or his eerie Mary Shelly’s Body, Featherbaby is a comedic morality tale.
Featherbaby (a dual-cast Gina Alvarado, who was sensational on opening night, alternating with Matt Cadigan) is a parrot happily living with the erratic, careless Angie (Mercedes Murphy, as sincere as possible at trying to give an unlikeable character humanity). The arrival of eager puzzle player Mason (Nate Musser, who really takes flight in the second act) leads to a new, complex relationship for the very territorial Featherbaby. Metaphors and relationship lessons abound in this cute, ultimately life-affirming tale.
Evans, one of our community’s most thoughtful directors, reflected on his experience in bringing something brand new to life: “I’m proud of myself and my actors for rooting decisions and character in truth. I think it’s a necessary way to find and create comedy.”
Alvarado is truly a marvel in the title role. She was wholly committed to a very challenging character and was both physically and vocally compelling in every way. The bird is the entire point of this story, and Alvarado’s performance lifts up any awkwardness in the script. She and Musser form a very beautiful onstage bond that reveals the trust that actors have in one another.
Set work by Eddy Hansen is both interesting and engaging, as is his lighting design.
Hopefully, Featherbaby will encourage other theaters in our area to take new works and writers under their wings, no pun intended.
‘Featherbaby’ runs through Sept. 14 in the Condiotti Experimental Theater at the Spreckels Performing Arts Center, 5409 Snyder Ln., Rohnert Park. Fri-Sat, 7:30pm; Sat & Sun, 2pm. $14–$34. 707.588.3400. spreckelsonline.com.
