Accidental Points of View – Review by Luke Dodge

‘Accidental Points of View’ is a self-described set of three plays regarding magic, larceny, and lies. It’s not much of a spoiler to say the description is accurate. Each play is better than the last and showcases local women playwrights.

Our first play, “Home,” begins in a dusty attic with Amy (Sarah Nickerson) and her brother Jake (Dane C. Petersen). After the death of their father, the two are packing the family house for sale when Jake stumbles upon a mysterious girl (Erika Crane Ricketts) who magically emerges from the walls, desperately begging for his help.

Next we’re taken to the filming of an episode of Antiques RoadShow in “You Must Remember This” where Susan (Amy Irene Stock), along with her best friend Joan (Tracy Fox), is looking to have an old photograph with sentimental attachments appraised by Dr. Brown (Larry Goodman). The two awkwardly stumble upon old acquaintances, the forgetful Margery (Glendora Davis) and her apologetic son Stanley (Zach Lofland). Despite Dr. Brown and his assistant Catherine’s (Meghann Deveroux) best efforts, they are unable to convince her to sell for reasons unknown…yet.

“Possession” brings us to a cheap apartment in the exciting aftermath of a daring art heist pulled off by the wildly disguised and madly in love Constance (Jill Nienhiser) and Max (Dane C. Petersen). Though their getaway is planned to the last detail, the plot twists and turns as the art has an unexpected effect on the low-class thieves. The action crescendos on the arrival of an over-the-top art dealer (Addison Parker) and his shady bodyguard (Meghann Deveroux).

While “Home” could stand a little more trust in the audience, Erika Crane Ricketts’s fervent energy makes this reviewer believe magic is hiding in plain sight. “You Must Remember This” successfully uses Alzheimer’s as a plot device and not for pity or humor, which is tricky to pull off. Background characters add depth to the scenes without taking away from the main action. Joan is very fun to watch and often steals the show.

“Possession” in particular hits all the right notes and had the audience in stitches. Jill Nienhiser is a joy to watch on stage and brings her character to life. “Accidental Points of View” is a solid show with wonderful acting all around and some entertaining twists. A delightful trio this reviewer recommends.