Ojai ACT

By Michael Putman Estwanik, March 30th 2024

Hi friends, last night I attended the opening of the play, Deer, at Ojai Arts Center. Just go. (2 for 1 tix this weekend only! – that means only 12.50 bucks!)  It’s got everything: hilarity, shock, romance, hate, humans, animals, furniture, tumbles, pillows, an adorable automobile, shovels, rocks, red liquids, baby formula, etc. At the intermission I spoke to one of Ojai’s most talented actresses as we raved about Act One who said “Michael, I have no idea where this is going.” I replied, “I have no idea where it has already gone.” Whenever I looked around at the audience, the only word I can think of to describe the looks on everyone’s faces was “dazed.” Yes, like a deer caught in headlights.

The performances by two of our favorite and most accomplished local actors – Cynthia Killian and Taylor Kasch were brilliant, even for them. Shocking. Hilarious. Left our mouths open. I kept thinking that the playwright, Aaron Mark, surely must have written this specifically for them. But the play was actually written seven years ago and premiered with Broadway stars Alison Fraser and Chip Zien. But they just couldn’t possibly have been as perfectly suited to these roles as Ms. Killian and Mr. Kasch. I can’t remember the last time I saw something on any stage where the performer(s) were better than the original cast. Oh wait, yes I can. Last spring. I saw Lea Michele on Broadway as Fanny Brice. Go ahead and say it. “Anathema.” Tar and feather me.

David Hendersen, who continues to receive major acclaim around our valley for his sensitive and generous direction plus his inspired and inspiring acting classes, gave this play everything he’s got. But everyone involved in creating this perfect set, unique props, astonishing sound effects, lighting that supported each different mood of the scene, terrific costumes, etc. obviously brought their finest efforts in support of David and his actors. And let’s never overlook saying thanks to a producer. In this case one of Ojai’s favorite daughters, Rosie Gordon – the always-working, superbly talented and committed actress, director, and here – producer. What does a producer do actually? Everything. Everything it takes to move a play off the script and onto the stage. Everything. Always supporting the director, actors, crew, and us the audience. Finding solutions to seemingly impossible problems. Did I mention everything?

Deer runs (well, sort of) Fridays and Saturdays at 730, Sundays at 2PM March 29th (too bad you missed the opening) -April 21st. Tickets once again, Only 25 “bucks” at https://www.tix.com/ticket-sales/tix/991/ The buzz around town for years will be “Did you get to see Deer?” “Oh dear, I am so sorry for you.”