It took sixteen years, sixteen sweet years, for Stop Kiss to be restaged and the wait is definitely worth it!
I entered Power Mac Center Spotlight with a curious look. I had to walk through a short, dark, sort of tunnel that reminded me of the start of an escape room and at the end of it were seats and a very pink stage that demanded my attention. I’ve seen previous stages made by Ed Lacson Jr. (Constellations is my favorite!) and I would have to say that this was on a league of its own! It was minimal yet it was well thought of, even a bit entrancing. There’s no escape by the time I got on my seat. I knew even then that it would be a great experience!
A few minutes in the theater and I thought I was ready. But right when it started, I took it back. All throughout the show, my attention was fully on the stage. As always, Teresa Barrozo’s sound design is perfect in enhancing the production. Genius is also present in Tata Tuviera’s costume design especially in the multiple lightning quick changes by the cast.
No words would be enough to describe the excellence of all the actors! Tarek El Tayech, Gabe Mercado, Robbie Guevara, Jay Valencia-Glorioso, and J-mee Katanyag had supporting roles but their passion in giving life to the characters written by Diana Son were evident in their performance. If the writer could see this specific production, she would agree with me that witnessing Jenny Jamora’s Sara and Missy Maramara’s Callie is something that should not be missed! Stop Kiss deserves to have at least a year’s run. Unfortunately, that’s a luxury we don’t have.
I’m not sure when you would have another chance to see a production this amazing. Maybe not even after 16 years. Stop Kiss is a testament of Ed Lacson Jr.’s wonderful direction. Yes! This rare treat is the most important play that you can watch this coming weekend! Highlight your weekend with pink by watching it! Remaining performances are July 19-21, 3PM on Saturday and Sunday, 8PM on Friday and Saturday. Tickets are available at
https://www.ticket2me.net/e/2445/stop-kiss
