Review: Rover Dramawerks Presents “Cry It Out”

Rover Dramawerks’ production of “Cry It Out” crafts a beautifully candid and visceral emotional journey. Cast and crew bring this powerfully-contemplative story to life with a vivid and heartfelt passion.

Written by Molly Smith Metzler, “Cry It Out” transports audiences to a suburban backyard where two newly-acquainted friends, “Jessie” and “Lina,” meet daily to enjoy a much-needed cup of coffee and share their perspectives as brand new mothers. Although they are from vastly different backgrounds, each finds common ground in the love they have for their newborn children. As the friendship blossoms, a stranger from the nearby mansion on the hill injects an unexpected twist into the already volatile mix.

Rover Dramawerks’ production of “Cry It Out” is smart, concise and all character interactions are extremely well-constructed to flow at a natural and appropriate pace. The production is immersive, self-aware and offers a well-rounded exploration of the trials and tribulations of motherhood and the roles of gender in parenthood. Each member of the cast brought a passionate, deep, and visceral understanding of their character’s inner workings, desires and fears to the stage.

As “Jessie,” Shea McMillan beautifully navigated the deep valleys and soaring heights of emotion new mothers must feel as they wrestle with the myriad of new physical, emotional and social demands placed upon them. As a male, I felt it important to check my own assumptions on these topics at the door and, instead, witness the exploration of the subject unfold through writer Molly Smith Metzler’s lens.

In the role of “Jessie’s” friend, “Lina,” the talented Danielle Elliott brought her character’s swagger, rough-edged charm and biting wit to life. As the two friends progress through the ups and downs of their similar, yet divergent experiences, the two actresses built a deep connection which helped craft a praiseworthy emotional dynamic.

Rounding out this tight-knit cast was the couple from the mansion on the hill, Eddy Herring as “Mitchell,” and Hayley Ewerz as his wife “Adrienne.” Even though they never appear together on stage at the same time, each skillfully depicted the passion and strife of their relationship with the other and helped build this dynamic story into a powerfully emotional, and contemplative crescendo.

Overall, this show is well-worth the attention of DFW theatregoers eager to delve into some deep emotional terrain. Due to the presence of strong language as well as the serious nature of the topic explored, it is probably best to let the kiddos sit this one out.

“Cry It Out”

Rover Dramawerks’ production of “Cry It Out” is directed by Carol Rice. The show runs through 6/26/21 at The Core Theatre in Richardson, Texas. “Cry It Out” stars Shea McMillan as “Jessie,” Danielle Elliott as “Lina,” Eddy Herring as “Mitchell,” and Hayley Ewerz in the role of “Adrienne.” The show also features stage management from Sara Jones, costuming by Juliana Stalter, set design by Carol Rice, lighting by Kenneth Hall and sound design courtesy of Robbi D. Holman.

Learn more about Rover Dramawerks’ upcoming productions by visiting them at www.roverdramawerks.com or call (972) 849-0358.

Photo credit: Carol Rice