A one-woman show starring two
of Indy’s finest leading ladies, Wild Horses is a fascinating concept with a
big payoff. Constance Macy and Jen Johansen rotate nights for their performances in
the coming-of-age story. The
one-act play flies by because it feels like chatting with an old friend who’s
regaling you with stories from her past. From first crushes to alcohol
concoctions only the underaged would dare to drink, the show captures the
electric, reckless feel of youth.
The
night I attended, Johansen was in the driver's seat and she kept up the break-neck
pace for the entire 80-minute show. Solo shows rest entirely on the shoulders
of the actor and Johansen was perfect for the role. She imbued each
scene with humor and heartbreak. She was full of energy and captured the
emotional peaks and valleys of adolescence.
She skips easily between half a dozen
impressions and voices as she tells the story of the summer when she was 13 and
the world was both full of excitement and crumbling around her. The show feels
reminiscent of all the best coming-of-age moments, with pieces of Stand by Me,
Stranger Things, and Now and Then mixed in together.
Music is a huge element in
the production and each scene features 1970s rock songs and love ballads. Kudos
to the lighting designer, Laura E. Glover. She manages to convey everything
from a wildfire to a herd of horses in clever ways. The set, designed by Zac
Hunter, looks like a lovely art installation. It’s functional, allowing space
to weave around, but also beautiful.
Wild Horses reminds us of the
importance of those moments that shape us in that malleable season of life. We
may part ways with our childhood friends, but those shared experiences stay
with us forever.
Don't Miss the Show
To
buy tickets or for more information about the Phoenix Theatre and its upcoming
season, visit phoenixtheatre.org.
Performances: The show runs until March 5th at the Phoenix Cultural Center, 705 N Illinois St, Indianapolis, IN 46204. There is adult language and themes throughout the show. You can choose the play based on the actress performing or, if possible, go see both!
Photos Courtesy of Indy Ghost Light
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