By: Cameron Alagna
“Playing God,” performed at the Second Stage Theatre at Parkland College, is a resounding hit, featuring two superb leads, a small but charming ensemble, a beautiful set, and bewitching costumes.
Written and directed by Felix Crim, “Playing God” is a sophisticated drama that follows the gruesome murders of a serial killer. In the Windy City, we follow the journey of two Chicago detectives: detective Aaron Platt (Spencer Hazen) and detective Rachel Tines (Madelyn Henson); both forced to face their troubling pasts to close this case. Lines between good versus evil become blurred and begs the question: Can there truly be justice under the eyes of God?
Playing God kicked off Parkland College’s fall theatre season, and it was refreshing. From the dramatic lighting to the set design and directing, “Playing God” encapsulated both art history and horror into one unique production.
We witness a horrific crime scene of four women portrayed by Kiah Johnson, Mariah Smith, Liana Reichlin, and Maya Baker. All four women are propped up to mimic the painting Supper at Emmaus as a homage to the killer’s twisted obsession with religion and art.
“Playing God” takes a deep look at the psychological and sociological influence Christianity has on others. Felix Crim brilliantly highlights the concept of religious guilt and the motif of hypocrisy throughout the show. With these concepts intertwining, the characters’ struggles felt real, personal, and uncomfortable: the perfect recipe for a sensational drama. However, what made this play truly come to life was the acting.
Our killer, who one may argue is villainous or not, was portrayed by Alex Noa. His execution of this character was nothing short of phenomenal and he truly embodied the narcissist Henry Taborer.
Our two leads, Spencer Hazen and Madelyn Henson complimented each other perfectly. Madelyn Hensons’ portrayal of detective Tines was inspiring. Strong, fierce, intelligent: are all words that came to mind as I watched her perform. Rachel Tines was a breath of fresh air in the Chicago police department, and Madelyn Henson brought that to life.
Spencer Hazen brought the wise, mysterious, and charming Aaron Platt to life on stage. There was this noir-like quality in his interpretation of Aaron Platt, which I believe was his strongest attribute to his character. These two were a match made in heaven.
If you ever get the chance to see a play composed by Felix Crim, take the opportunity to because his work is compelling, thought-provoking, and leaves an everlasting impression.
