Where’s the baby?

Edward Albee’s “The Play About the Baby,” directed by Scott Cavin, is an intriguing production the CSC Theatre Department is presenting.

The perplexing combination of crude sexual humor and somber truth found within the monologues kept this viewer interested in what was occurring throughout the play.  Although often lengthy, the number of monologues found within the play of Man,

played by Willis Miller, senior of Deer Trail, Colo., and Woman, played by Hannah Clark, junior of Littleton, Colo., made me think about common occurrences in a different light, such as when you forget someone’s name or driving to a new destination.

Interaction with audience members adds humor to the characters.  Particularly that of Miller’s Man, a complex character that tends to lead the direction of the play.  I had a difficult time deciding if I liked this character. He is a confusing individual with his drawn-out, confusing monologues, and contemplative personality.

My favorite character was that of Clark’s Woman.  She brought much of the sexual humor to light with amusing facial expressions, suggestive gestures, and a witty personality.

The characters of Boy and Girl, played by Derek Phelps, junior of Sidney, and Ashley Rushman, senior of Gurley, are simpler characters but just as amusing and thoughtful as the previous duo.

The simple set consisting of a background made from paint-splattered cream muslin leaves and two old wooden chairs, leaves the setting of the play to the imagination, and causes the characters to give more context about the play.  The set also assists the characters in having the audience pay close attention to their speeches and discussions.

While the play starts out humorous and light-hearted, it eventually turns dark and more serious.  The play still appears witty, sexual, and slightly confusing except a noticeable darkness becomes visible in the characters’ vague motives.

At the end, I was left contemplating what message the characters were trying to get across.  The ending is confusing and vague, left open to interpretation. The lights close with one thinking that there should be another scene.  While much of the play is whimsical and titillating, the ending is what makes it introspective and purposeful.  This production was well chosen for Valentine’s Day weekend for all of the “intrepid travelers” and lovebirds to enjoy and ponder, “What just happened?” in the end.