Washington, D.C. – Keegan Theatre is demonstrating a commendable commitment to new play development with its world premiere of John Doe, a production that’s as visually striking as it is thematically ambitious. The play, by Angelle Whavers, opened to strong notices, with critics praising the company’s dedication to showcasing fresh voices in a landscape often dominated by established intellectual property.
The production, directed by Josh Sticklin – who also serves as the scenic designer and technical director for Keegan’s Boiler Room Series – centers around a young woman, Zia and her encounter with the ghost of a young man, Doe, who is trying to uncover the circumstances of his death. The narrative unfolds as a blend of mystery, grief, and the anxieties of modern life.
Ariana Caldwell delivers a compelling performance as Zia, portraying a character defined by her social anxiety. Her initial interactions with Doe, played with a contrasting ease by Mitchell Alexander, are fraught with a self-consciousness that grounds the play’s more fantastical elements. The dynamic between the two actors is central to the production’s success, highlighting the play’s exploration of connection and loss.
The staging of John Doe is particularly noteworthy. Jeremy Bennett’s motion projections create a haunting atmosphere, depicting a cemetery landscape that feels both ethereal and grounded. Niya John’s lighting design and Brandon Cook’s sound work further enhance the sense of unease and mystery, while Josh Sticklin’s overall artistic direction seamlessly integrates these elements into a cohesive and immersive experience.
The play introduces supporting characters – Talisha, the barista (Alicia Grace), and Nadia, a cemetery guard (Bianca Lipford) – who provide a glimpse into Zia’s everyday life. Their interactions with Zia, and their inability to perceive Doe, create moments of awkwardness and highlight Zia’s isolation. Patricia Williams Dugueye appears as both Zia’s mother and another character, Jenny, an archivist, offering different perspectives on the themes of grief and social connection.
While the play delves into serious themes, it also incorporates moments of levity and self-awareness. Doe’s pronouncements about his own “main character material” status provide a touch of humor, even as they underscore his desperation to understand his fate. The script, however, sometimes relies on quick-paced dialogue that, while entertaining, can feel at odds with the play’s deeper emotional currents.
The play’s exploration of grief and loss is revealed gradually, through a series of scenes, sounds, and projections. The narrative ultimately connects Zia and Doe through a shared experience of loss – the loss of siblings – adding a layer of emotional resonance to their interactions. The ending, while touching, feels somewhat understated, as if the play has been hesitant to fully embrace its emotional core throughout its runtime.
Despite these minor reservations, John Doe represents a significant achievement for Keegan Theatre and a promising debut for Angelle Whavers. The production’s strengths lie in its superb stagecraft, its compelling performances, and its willingness to tackle complex themes in a thought-provoking way. The play’s use of technology, including projections and sound design, is particularly effective in creating a haunting and immersive atmosphere.
Keegan Theatre’s Boiler Room Series continues to be a vital platform for new works, and John Doe is a testament to the company’s commitment to artistic innovation. The production runs through , at the Keegan Theatre, located at 1742 Church St NW, Washington, DC. Tickets are available online.
John Doe is a commissioned work by Keegan’s Boiler Room Series initiative for new works.
Cast: Ariana Caldwell (Zia), Mitchell Alexander (Doe), Alicia Grace (Talisha), Bianca Lipford (Nadia), and Patricia Williams Dugueye (Mom/Oscar/Jenny).
Creative Team: Josh Sticklin (Scenic Designer and Technical Director), Niya John (Lighting Designer), Luke Hartwood (Properties Designer), Brandon Cook (Sound Designer), Jeremy Bennett (Projections Designer), Anya Peregrino (Costume & Hair/Wig/Makeup Designer), Mikayla Talbert (Stage Manager), Jared H. Graham (Production Manager), Dan Martin (Lead Electrics Technician), and Isabella Tapia (Revolve Programmer).
