Last night, I decided to attend the opening of Flipside mostly to see the turn-out and gauge the audience’s reaction to certain aspects of the play. It was an amazing work, the actors and crew did a tremendous job, the technical elements went off with minimal glitches and the audience members were very receptive!

I sensed no uncomfortable shifting, heard no teeth sucking, or witnessed anybody storm out in offended and self-righteous indignation. Flipside‘s opening night was well attended and a definite success. Audience members chuckled, they tsk tsk’ed as they agreed with some of the play’s dialogue regarding this country’s War on Drugs, and LOL’ed at some of the lingo common in urban communities. I think it’s safe to surmise that the majority of the attendees were from Hartford and so found familiarity with some of the language.

Actors Chinaza Uche and Brian Jennings had an intense chemistry that added authenticity and rawness to the play. Taneisha’s turn as the ‘Bad Mother’ was acute, especially when she sang the rousing, heartfelt song of the same name. Cindy Martinez transitioned between several roles effortlessly… the two of note are her turn as a Chorus member performing a dope spoken-word piece that picks up momentum toward the middle and end of the play and her turn as Ramone Delgado, a small-time drug dealer from Nick’s earlier days as an undercover narcotics agent.

Lead writer, Julia Rosenblatt also played somewhat of a comical role as a well past her prime drug mule and addict…

There was just so much to like and appreciate during Flipside. The audience illustrated this when they gave a standing ovation! I’d catch it if I were you… Not for nothing, but it’s far more entertaining than the Royal Wedding (and yes I went there). I definitely plan to see it at least a couple more times.