Franklin's Key is a riveting new play and a must-see for theater fans. The show is staged by the Pig Iron Theatre Company at the Plays and Players Theatre in Philadelphia (I’m sad to report that I didn’t think to wear my Lehigh Valley IronPigs hat, but let’s continue).
To start, the venue is delightful. I'm always inclined to visit the smaller (and often historic) theaters. Something about being so close to the action makes the experience more intimate. An added bonus is, there is never a “bad” seat at the less-cavernous venues. Of note, Plays and Players has two all-gender bathrooms with descriptive signage outside of each, a welcome and progressive modification that shows their commitment to inclusivity in the modern theater scene. I’d also like to highlight the house staff. While incredibly friendly and professional, I also witnessed a staff member presciently offer a booster seat to a family (who had already been seated) with a small child in their party. This minuscule act spoke volumes in the realm of customer service.
As far as the plot goes, I won't say much. It's too good to risk spoiling, and any patron deserves the adventure of this story. With that said, it's very Philly-centric while maintaining a broader draw and will take the audience through twists and turns to a magnificent ending. It's an excellent story for any fans of historical and scientific themes (and can pull you in even if you're not a nerd like me). Set your perception of reality aside while stepping into a mind-melting world of magic with a basis in realism, while paying homage to the rich history of the city. On a deeper level, it reaffirms the strength of trusted relationships and the dangers of unchecked power. It fittingly and ironically resonates with Ben Franklin’s warnings against tyrannical rule, especially so given the performance occurred just hours after the conclusion of the “No Kings” Rally at the steps of the Art Museum.
This creative team was outstanding. So as not to miss any of the many amazing minds, I won’t name any one person (aside from script writers Dan Rothenberg and Robert Quillen Camp), so allow me to give some highlights. The script flows seamlessly, keeping attention and providing some lighthearted humor without a hint of cheese. The lighting work, in particular, blew me away as a former tech crew kid, in conjunction with the special effects. Of special note, the lighting and effects were comparable to something rarely seen in even Broadway shows (and notably reminiscent of Back to the Future). The sound design and scoring were an important structural aspect (with the score in particular selling the mood from start to finish). The stage management and prop work, along with choreography, were their own essential character, with every scene transition flowing without a hitch. While the main set pieces were static, many dynamic pieces were used, and the hard-set pieces were used in a way that almost made the viewer forget it existed until it re-emerged in the next scene, with new breath.
On to the cast, again without giving away any plot points. The chemistry of Jameka Monet Wilson, Alton Alburo, and Jacob Orr was incredible, performing like a group of old friends. Benjamin Bass gave an amazing contrast in their vastly different roles, garnering many chuckles from the audience. Izzk Sazak, another dual-role actor, had incredible charisma and chemistry. Chris Thorn and Alice Yorke, in their dynamic roles, gave both levity and intense drama, turning on a dime. The movement ensemble of Ben Grinberg, Makoto Hirano, and Devon Sinclair amazed with their finely-tuned choreography and bit parts. This cast of 10 felt like a cast of 20 or more, with kudos to the casting and direction for enabling these performers.
I truly hadn’t planned to write a blog entry for this show, only due to my self-imposed turnaround and the fact that I’ve been awake for nearly 20 hours after a very busy day. Personal ramblings aside, a running thought I had from a few moments in all the way to the curtain call was: This show is an EXPERIENCE. The production, the acting, the VISUALS! This is something that everyone should witness. Perhaps it plays on my affinity for the City of Brotherly Love, or the incredible lighting and visual effects, but it’s nearing one of my favorite productions in recent memory.
Dare I say that Franklin’s Key is…electrifying? I’ll see myself out.
Franklin’s Key is halfway through its run, and you’ll have chances to see it up until June 29th. Don’t miss your chance to witness this original, mind-blowing production.
Plays and Players Theatre is located at 1714 Delancey Pl, Philadelphia, PA, 19103. It’s just a few blocks from the western end of the PATCO Speedline at 15/16th & Locust. Several SEPTA bus routes are a few blocks away. The walk from the SEPTA L at 15th or the T lines at 15th or 19th Streets.
Super bonus: Monk’s Cafe is right around the corner.
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