THEY CALL ME MR. FRY

at the Lex

Reviewed by Var Smith

There’s no doubt that playwright/performer Jack Freiberger was strongly affected by the years he taught fifth grade in an elementary school in  South Central Los Angeles.  It’s all there and more in this world premiere autobiographical solo performance piece.

Freiberger wants to share the profound impact of his experiences—and he does, with passion and commitment.

Freiberger is at best when he dramatizes two of his “problem” minority students: Anthony and Jasmine.  He speaks from their hearts and it affects ours. He respects them, trusting them to simply tell us their stories of painful childhoods, growing up in poverty, surrounded by violence and ignored by society.  He effectively dramatizes young Anthony, a knife carrying “rape baby” and his strong, proud advocating uncle.  Jasmine nervously chews invisible gum, has no emotional support at home, but hasn’t missed a day of elementary school.  These well-drawn and performed children find comfort and security with Mr. Fry, who is surprised and overwhelmed by the amount of influence he’s had on their lives—and it changes his.

Freiberger found his own humanity through teaching.  He learned what he taught and how he treated his students mattered.  People want to know they make a difference.  This is a universal desire that most of us can relate to.

The production is enthusiastically directed by Mark W. Travis on a minimalist set, with lighting design by Kathi O”Donohue and Travis.

They Call Me Mr. Fry presented by Sew and Sew Productions

at the Lex, 6760 Lexington Ave., Hollywood, Wed.-Thurs.

8pm – Feb 22, (818) 906-0675