Jackalope Theatre presents the World Premiere of NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH.
In the aftermath of the 2024 election, the country is in turmoil! The President is fueling hatred and distrust of anyone ‘different.’ Paul lives in the suburbs with his daughter. He is anxious about the future of democracy. Mohammed moves in next door with mysterious boxes and a Muslim heritage. Between a neighbor’s conspiracy theories and his daughter’s romantic interests, Paul’s progressive views get blurry. When Mo’s cousin arrives, Paul becomes erratic.
Playwright Rehana Lew Mirza addresses the discomfort of racism in the country, in neighbors and in ourselves. She introduces Paul (played by Frank Nall) as a caring father and a concerned citizen. He is wearing a Bernie 2016 shirt while fretting about a rebellious Becca (played by Jamie Herb) getting a job. The exchange is laced with dad jokes. Mizra then takes Paul next door to meet Mo (played by Harsh Gagoomal). The conversation is awkward as a guarded Gagoomal responds to Nall’s inane chatter. Later, a busybody Shawn (played by Victor Holstein) and an easygoing Javed’s (played by Omar Bader) presences add complexity to the racial angst.
NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH seems set-up to be a comedy, drama or both. Although the ingredients are all there, it doesn’t quite congeal into an identifiable choice. The humor can be witty yet is often cartoonish. This comedic spectrum then waters down the tension. Characters dramatically transform without an emotional arc to support the change. Pivotal moments feel false and confusing. Instead of being engrossed in the actual story, I spent my time trying to piece together what was happening.
I’m a fan of Jackalope shows. And I love a World Premiere! Unfortunately, I didn’t enjoy NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH.
Running Time: Two hours includes an intermission.
At Jackalope Theatre at Broadway Armory Park, 5917 N. Broadway
Written by Rehana Lew Mirza
Directed by Kaiser Ahmed
Performances are:
Fridays, Saturdays & Mondays at 7:30 PM
Sundays at 2 PM
Thru June 28
For more information or tickets
Production photos by Joel Masionet
For more Chicago theatre information and reviews, please visit Theatre in Chicago