Five people, One problem.
Reviewed by Eloise Coopersmith
Step into the unique world of FOUR, an ambitious play written by the talented Clé Holly and brought to life by a dedicated cast at the Broadwater Second Stage. This thought-provoking production explores an intriguing question: Can the music go on when a vital member of a string quartet family is absent? The committed performances of Katherine Lee, Michael Lamb and Tonoccus McClain powerfully convey the emotional journey of three musicians grappling with the aftermath of their loss.
As the quartet’s delicate balance is disrupted, their once harmonious journey takes an unforeseen turn. Enter the controlling manager performed with intensity by Bong Cabrera, whose abrupt introduction of a new violist, skillfully played by the remarkable Melissa Folzenlogen, adds a dramatic twist to the narrative. She unveils her talent through a mesmerizing introductory violin solo, flooding the theater with the resplendent sound of a live instrument that serves as a poignant reminder of the irreplaceable presence of live musicians. (here’s why we must keep live musicians on Broadway!)
In the wake of this transformative event, the quartet, once a tapestry of unity, becomes a symphony fragmented by notes of separation. Discord replaces harmony, and their collective rhythm falters under the weight of their shared grief. The group struggles to maintain their musical bond. Through themes of loss, longing, and the heart-wrenching reality of bidding farewell to what was once cherished, FOUR invites us to reflect on the fragility of human connections and its impact when the final note plays.
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