Take a moment and think about your life. Think about that first moment you fell in love with someone. Remember that feeling? That feeling like you're falling very quickly and hoping you’ll land on your feet. And someone catches you because they have that same feeling. Now imagine that love you felt…what if someone was so hurtful and hateful that this beautiful moment is now…stopped.
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A play that highlights queer themes and the journey of acceptance, Stop Kiss is one of those rare treats that spotlights the lives of the LGBTQ+ community and the continued hate that we receive, especially in our current time. To have a play that isn’t afraid to colorfully show and tell how lives can be affected by a cruel act is as refreshing as it is powerful.
Chloe Jarjous soars as Callie who is our main anchor as we jump between the two timelines. Jarjous’s balance of jovial playfulness to gut wrenching horror in her recounting of this homophobic act against the woman she loves is a testament to her power as an actor that lends to some of the most memorable and tear-jerking moments of the show.
Mia Bernard shines as Sara, our heartthrob. Immediately upon introduction, Bernard casts a spell that instantly makes you fall in love with Sara. Witty, funny, compassionate, and a bit of spitfire; Sara is a perfect match for our Callie. Bernard’s mastery of the craft shines through especially in the chemistry between herself and Jarjous.
Justin Ferguson commands as former (or not so former) boyfriend George. At times, Ferguson’s character may come across a bit nonchalant but it’s when he sees Callie hurting that you truly see how Callie means to George. Ferguson’s calm but comedically timed delivery is a standout in and of itself.
Salem Perez Torres stuns as Peter is a treat! Incredible range and excellent delivery, he proves that every scene has value and that it's not a character’s stage time that matters but how the character is played. Torres wows at every turn. From his playfulness and bedtime stories to highly charged clashes with other characters, Torres is a knockout!
Alexis Leon reforms as Mrs. Winsley (and as one of the Nurse orderlies) but it's the former of the two roles that is an important lesson. Leon’s hero neighbor turns into someone who may be the hero…but has much to learn about not judging a book by its cover or by making assumptions. Leon’s performance is captivating and you can’t help but want more time with Winsley.
Chris West surprises as Detective Cole who charges more of the intimate scenes with Callie and Winsley. These are not easy scenes yet West makes it look easy as he steps into Cole. Intimidating, authoritative, and cold, West proves that his character may not be the best good guy…but he’s certainly not someone you want to be against. West is also in charge of the warm/cool lighting changes between certain scenes as we bounce to the past and present.
Covering the on stage reading of the stage directions is Safran Astra who keeps us all in check with everything going on with a minimal set and smooth transitions between scenes. These weren’t sped through and it really helps place us in what’s happening, including the miming of some of the actors.
Shannon’s direction is stellar. This is clearly a project of love and the dedication to telling these kinds of stories is pertinent and powerful. Each scene is handled with the care and attention they deserve to build this beautiful story of love that the audience also falls for by the end. Following the show, this reviewer had a chance to speak to her and when asked about this show she replied, “It’s important that theater not be afraid to tell stories like these but it is also important to end on a happy note.”
"Stop Kiss" continues its run 8/20, 8/21, and 8/22 at 7pm at Between the Lines Studio Theater in Allentown! Please reach out to