Steadstyle Chicago
	February 2010 Theatre Review by Chris Arnold
	The Rant I have been a long time fan Mary-Arrchie Theatre Co because of their provocative play choices, high production values, and top-notch acting.  I am sad to report "The Rant", receiving its Midwest premiere, lacks all of the aforementioned qualities. "The Rant" tells the story of an investigation of a police shooting of an unarmed, 16-year African-American boy with autism.  Through a series of meetings, interviews and threats the investigator discovers nothing is black and white (literally and metaphorically); and as stated by one of the mother of the victim "the truth is just another kind of prejudice".  "The Rant" is based on Andrew Case's eight years of personal experience working on police misconduct issues for the City of New York.  Despite an engaging monologue about the double standards of the race card, "The Rant" does not illuminate anything new or exciting. The subject matter is potentially volatile, but everything about the production is half-hearted and sterile.  I place the blame on Director Sharon Evans.  Every member of the ensemble showed potential, but fell short due to misdirection.  No one appeared to be connected to each other or the material, and the intense moments felt manufactured.  The pacing was so tepid it made a 100-minute play feel like three hours.  Ultimately, I did not care about any of the characters or the story. Mary-Arrchie Theatre Co has a track record of strong work, and I will continue to support their endeavors. Unfortunately, "The Rant" has fallen short.  Through March 28, 2010 at Angel Island, 735 W. Sheridan, Chicago, IL.  Call 773-871-0442 or visit www.maryarrchie.com.  Tickets are $18-$22.  Performances are Thursdays through Saturdays at 8 pm, Sundays at 7pm.  Running time is 100 minutes without intermission.   About Chris Arnold Chris Arnold has been in Chicago for seven years where he has directed for Act One Studios, the side project, Bailiwick, Illinois Theatre Center, LiveWire Theater, and Diamante Productions, amongst others.  For three years he was a company member with Circle Theatre, and directed the Jeff Recommended productions "Escanaba in Love" and "Boy".  He also directed "A Midsummer Night's Dream" with Circle Theatre Youth Ensemble.  He is the former Associate Artistic Director for Thunder & Lightning Ensemble where he directed "Jack Goes Boating," "Red Light Winter" (Named one of the top five memorable productions by a smaller troupe: New City 2008), and "Earl the Vampire".  Chris has interned at Steppenwolf and Goodman Theatre.  While at the Goodman he had the opportunity to serve as the Script Manager for the world premiere of "Blue Surge" by Rebecca Gilman.  When not directing Chris teaches in the Literature & Theatre Department(s) at The Chicago Academy for the Arts, where he has directed "Doubt" and "The Pillowman".  He writes for Chicagocritic.com, and is a member of the Artistic/Technical Team for the Jeff Committee.  Spring 2010 Chris will be a Teaching Artists with American Theatre Company as part of their American Mosaic Program.  He holds an MFA in Directing (with a focus in Critical Studies) from The University of Memphis.