The Annie Russell Theatre at Rollins College is currently hosting a production of POTUS
, a farce centered on the women tasked with managing the fallout from a crude and incompetent president. While reviews suggest the play isn’t without its flaws, several performances are being singled out for particular praise, notably those of Kayla Michelle Pisano and Darcy Gonzalez.
Pisano and Gonzalez portray the chief of staff and press secretary, respectively and according to a review in the Orlando Sentinel, they display the fine comic art of unraveling in style.
This suggests a performance that leans into the chaotic and stressful nature of their roles, finding humor in the breakdown of control as they attempt to navigate a crisis. The review, published on , highlights their ability to deliver comedic timing amidst the farcical circumstances of the play.
The play itself, described as a farce, suggests a heightened reality filled with exaggerated characters and improbable situations. The premise – women attempting to contain a president’s missteps – taps into a familiar vein of political satire, a genre that has seen a resurgence in recent years. The timing of the production, coinciding with Presidents’ Day, adds another layer of potential resonance, though the play’s focus appears to be on the internal dynamics of the White House staff rather than a direct commentary on any specific political figure.
Darcy Gonzalez’s performance as the press secretary is particularly noteworthy given the increasing scrutiny faced by those in similar roles in real-world politics. The press secretary is often the public face of an administration, responsible for shaping the narrative and managing the flow of information. A comedic portrayal of this position, focusing on the unraveling
of composure under pressure, could offer a satirical commentary on the challenges and contradictions inherent in the job.
Kayla Michelle Pisano’s portrayal of the chief of staff is equally significant. The chief of staff is often considered the most powerful person in the White House, responsible for controlling access to the president and managing the day-to-day operations of the executive branch. A comedic take on this role, emphasizing the art of unraveling
, suggests a performance that explores the limits of control and the pressures of maintaining order in a chaotic environment.
The Orlando Sentinel review notes that Pisano and Gonzalez are joined onstage by Chelsea Daniel, Drea Cusano, and Liz Rodriguez, creating an ensemble cast navigating the tumultuous world of POTUS
. The production, as captured in a photograph accompanying the review, appears visually dynamic, with the actors positioned in a way that suggests both collaboration and conflict.
Beyond the specific performances, the play’s broader themes resonate with current cultural conversations. The focus on the women surrounding the president shifts the perspective away from the traditional male-dominated narrative of political power. This framing allows for an exploration of the often-overlooked contributions and challenges faced by women in positions of authority, even within a comedic context.
The description of POTUS
as raucous
and incorporating outrageous humor
– including a running pickle prank gag
and crude jokes
– as highlighted in a YouTube description, suggests a production that doesn’t shy away from pushing boundaries. This type of humor, blending the political with the absurd, is increasingly common in contemporary satire, reflecting a desire to confront difficult topics with a sense of irreverence.
While the review acknowledges that POTUS
is flawed
, it also suggests that it hits close to home.
This implies that despite its comedic exaggeration, the play taps into recognizable truths about the realities of political life, particularly the pressures and compromises faced by those working within the system. The play’s ability to be both funny and thought-provoking is likely a key factor in its appeal.
The Rollins College production of POTUS
offers a local opportunity to engage with a play that speaks to broader national conversations about politics, power, and gender. The performances of Kayla Michelle Pisano and Darcy Gonzalez, in particular, are drawing attention for their comedic skill and their ability to capture the complexities of their characters’ situations. The play’s blend of farce and satire positions it as a relevant and engaging piece of contemporary theater.
It’s worth noting that the production is taking place at the Annie Russell Theatre, a venue with a long history of presenting high-quality theatrical productions. Rollins College’s commitment to the performing arts provides a platform for both emerging and established artists to showcase their work, contributing to the cultural landscape of the Orlando area.
Further research reveals that Kayla Pisano also has a performance reel available online, showcasing her work as an actress. This reel, titled “KMPreel.mov” and listed on a Google Sites page, includes a dramaturgy packet for a production of Head Over Heels
, suggesting a broader interest in theatrical production beyond performance.
