It Is What It Is

Review by Charlotte Craig
45 min | Mix | General

It Is What It Is is a charming collection of skit-like performances by actors from the Orleans Young Players (OYP) Theatre School. It is truly a mix of theatrical genres and techniques, including drama, comedy, tableau, and dance, allowing the aspiring thespians to show off the techniques they’ve learned.

The cast made good use of their stage (and gallery) and simple props, and while they didn’t turn out the lights to rearrange the setting for the following scenes, they were quick and exact while doing so. Some of the lines were delivered a little quickly and monotonously, and there were a few line fumbles (as well as a couple of instances where actors cut each other off), but nothing that distracted too much from the performance. Otherwise the actors were well-coordinated, and it was clear the performance was well-rehearsed.

One of the most surprising elements of It Is What It Is was the ability of the actors to project an understanding of the depth and complexity of their subject matter, which was occasionally quite dark. I found some of the monologues to be impressive in their frankness and insight compared to those I’ve seen by elder, (presumably) more experienced performers. Some of the later drama was a little heavy-handed and cheesy, but not overwhelmingly so. As well, there were at least a few good one-liners.

The show was over in approximately forty-five minutes, and I believe the performers truly gave it their best. It’s unfortunate the crew only have one more showing, because it’s always a treat to watch a group of promising, young up-and-comers.

It Is What It Is by the OYP Theatre School is playing at Venue 4 -Studio Léonard-Beaulne (135 Séraphin-Marion Private) on Saturday, June 23 at 1:30pm. Tickets are $10.