Miss Witherspoon

McCarter Theater is a wonderful space to see just about anything. I love to see new plays, before critics throw their spin onto it. It allows a chance to be completely unbiased. The only thing I knew about this play was it's author, Christopher Durang, who wrote "Sister Mary Ignatius Explains It All For You", a very good play that played in Key West several years ago.
This show is about a woman who resists reincarnation because of all the horrors she she's on earth. There are lessons, some clever dialogue, and decent performances, but I felt that this was about as big as this play will ever get. That is not an insult, it's just not a very important or big play. It will probably have a life in community theater. A nice night, nothing more.
Kristine Neilsen as Veronica was good. It's a hefty role and I couldn't help trying to figure out who could have done the role better if I were to cast it. That's not a good sign as your watching someone act. Mahira Kakkar as Maryamma, the Indian "reincarnation counselor" was also decent. Her role called for her to be one note, happy. I couldn't help thinking that a more seasoned actress could have pulled this off with more subtle levels.
Pride night theater events are interesting, and pretty unnecessary. I no longer see a need for this in our community, and didn't see anyone feeling particularly proud to be there.
It was a fun night, and always great to see new work.