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Available Light Theatre’s ‘Appropriate’ Delivers Haunting Family Drama

Ambition and complexity define Branden Jacobs-Jenkins’ “Appropriate,” a play that weaves themes of family, race, and history into a haunting narrative. Available Light Theatre’s rendition of the off-Broadway production at the Riffe Center showcases director David Glover’s adept handling of the play’s tonal shifts with a talented cast and stellar design team.

Set at a Southern plantation-home, the story revolves around the Lafayette family as they grapple with their father’s estate and the ghosts of the past. Kim Garrison Hopcraft’s portrayal of Toni, the embittered elder sister, captures a range of emotions from frustration to despair, while Jordan Fehr embodies the conflicted persona of Frank/Franz, the prodigal son seeking redemption.

Baylee Sheets brings a touch of melancholy to her role as Frank’s girlfriend, adding depth to their shared journey of healing. Philip Hickman shines as Bo, a character torn between reconciling with his history and the allure of a questionable bargain. Beth Josephsen’s portrayal of Rachel, Bo’s wife, adds a layer of strained humor that occasionally veers into discord.

Supporting performances by John Thomas Conner and Sarah Wilson round out the ensemble, offering glimpses into the intricacies of family dynamics and personal struggles. While the play’s first act brims with intensity, the subsequent acts at times lose focus, meandering into lulls that detract from the overall impact.

Jacobs-Jenkins’ script, though ambitious, occasionally feels overstuffed with subplots and revelations, drawing comparisons to works like “August: Osage County” and “Clybourne Park.” The exploration of home and history as enduring legacies provides fertile ground for storytelling, yet the play’s structure at times strains under the weight of its themes.

Scenic designer Steve Emerson’s intricate portrayal of the cluttered living room serves as a poignant backdrop, mirroring the characters’ journey of unraveling the past. The play’s transitions are enhanced by Griffin DeWitt’s evocative lighting and Dave Wallingford’s immersive sound design, creating an atmosphere that foreshadows the unfolding drama.

As Available Light Theatre continues to push boundaries with productions like “Appropriate,” the evolving landscape of contemporary theater is enriched by bold storytelling and innovative design choices. Despite its occasional missteps, the play resonates with poignant moments of introspection and familial strife, inviting audiences to ponder the complexities of identity and heritage.

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