by Chandler Eckert

The first GC theater performance of the semester, “Sailor’s Song,” was a hit with great acting, a beautiful set, contemporary directing choices, out-of-pocket quips and an all-encompassing plot. While I admit I was a bit skeptical about having two leads switch off at seemingly random points in the play, Anthony Rose and Ash Christian, who both played the role of Rich, were able to pull it off with spectacular talent. 

Speaking of talent, this play introduced us to Gabby Iwaszkiewicz. She played the role of Joan, a spiritual oddball that Rich falls in love with, along with her sister Lucy, played by Libby Snover. As we follow the three—watching their love blossom—we are met with a somber secondary plot about Uncle John, played by Eli Brown, dealing with the oncoming death of his wife Carla, played by Lexi Chester. Rich and his uncle take part in multiple conversations about love, life and the meaning of their relationship with each other, leaving us with our own questions of what we are doing. 

The dance scene between Rich, Lucy and Joan was hilarious and engaging, with the audience laughing and humming along. Right before the dance scene, Lucy and Joan serenaded Rich with a beautifully sung version of “Santa Lucia.” Libby and Gabby both have amazing voices that harmonize well with one another, sounding enchanting. 

Towards the end of the play, when Carla passes away, she performs a hauntingly sensual dance to symbolize her death. It was wonderfully choreographed and brought to life with the background music and lighting. 

The scene where Uncle John talks about how Rich reminds him of his brother is heartbreakingly beautiful, “I turned your father’s stomach. When I touched his hand, it made him sick. When I told him I loved him, it disgusted him, like I was some problem.” This short monologue from Uncle John is by far my favorite scene in the play. The raw emotion and meaning behind these few sentences carry the weight of generations being alienated for showing their affection. It is something that too many people, including Rich and Lucy, suffer through when they should not have to. 

“Sailor’s Song” was an amazing play and was a perfect way to start off the semester. Remember to congratulate the cast and crew for their great work!