The setting of “The Coast Starlight” is simple – the bleak interior of a long-distance train traveling from Los Angeles to Seattle. The set, three rows of black chairs and a bag rack, are the only home for the actors and audience throughout the show’s 100-minute run.
We are first introduced to T.J. (Joey Sponseller), a young man who implies he is not what he seems, and a young cartoonist, Jane (Ariel Rose), who sits, quietly sketching. While both are attracted to the other, neither speaks, and the play begins with a hypothetical conversation between the two about what they would have said if they’d had the courage.
Throughout the show, four more passengers board, each with their own burdens and troubles. The play goes back and forth between hypothetical conversations and what actually happens between the passengers, highlighting the differences between interior worlds and what is perceived by others.
We meet Noah (Ben Bailey), a world-weary veteran, who shares an unspoken understanding with T.J., Liz (Nicole Lockett) a wild free spirit who is shaken by T. J’s kindness, Ed, an aggressive businessman (Sean Morrin), and Anna (Alyson Lapan), a grieving mother.
While each actor embodies their character seamlessly (Lapan’s quiet love and Morrin’s inner shame were particularly well played) the script at times feels a bit constrained.
The narrative becomes a bit convoluted at times when it is not clear if the characters are actually speaking to each other or only imagining what they would say if they were to speak.
The show’s greatest strength is the chemistry of the cast, particularly at a moment when they all come together, helping T.J. and Jane imagine a hypothetical life together. Even at times when only two cast members are in dialogue, the remainder stay connected and engaged, creating an atmosphere of mutual empathy that is the heart of the show.
While somewhat vapid in places, the message of “The Coast Starlight” is â propos for the current cultural moment. Our fellow passengers, on a train or in life, are a universe unto themselves, each with a past, a present, and a future – a future you may impact significantly, even if you are merely sitting for hours on the same train.
“The Coast Starlight” runs through Sunday, Oct. 19 (Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m., Sundays at 2 p.m.) at Kennedy Catholic High School.
Click Here to Buy Tickets and Learn More About the Cast.
Photos
Click arrows or swipe images to view slideshow of photos by Michael Brunk:
