Theater! Theater! in south east Portland has a great new event called "Theatre Works" in which playwrights are given the ability to perfect their work-in-progress by staging a production of their new scripts with the freedom to tweak and edit at every rehearsal.  The writer has the opportunity to discuss with actors how the script could better portray the motivation for each character, better move along the plot and dialogue in a way that feels more natural, as well as hear feedback from the audience about what parts they love and what parts don't make sense or need more work.

This Tuesday I attended a Theatre Works presentation of Ellen Margolis's new "Trying Not to Stare."  Between poorly clarified dream sequences, a few underdeveloped plot points, and one very confusing and context-lacking kiss between the stud and his would-be girlfriend's mother--there are still some kinks to work out in this budding new play.  I will say, however, that there is very little doubt in my mind that when this work is finished, it will be absolutely phenomenal.  Despite the fact that the actors had literally been handed new lines and new scenes every day right up until hours before the performance, the story was so engaging and each character was so fascinating that I quickly forgot to notice they were all still on book for the whole show.  The funny parts are HILARIOUS, the thoughtful parts really make you think, and while some of the sadder and more emotional moments still need some work to really strike the heartstrings of the audience, I'm confident that Margolis has the talent to be able to figure that one out.

To give a brief synopsis, this play is about an assortment of people coming to terms with the fact that they are not the people they want to be--someone else is better than them, stronger than them, prettier, wealthier, more capable--but maybe that's not such a bad thing.  The two main storylines follow a cosmetic surgeon and one of his patients as they struggle with and eventually accept the fact that their lives will never be "normal." 

Before I wrap this up, I just want to say that I have tons of respect for the actors who participate in this program and weather the constant changes every night.  They did a great job.

Be sure to check this play out as soon as it's done.  I promise you're gonna love it.