Sept. 02--Aside from a single shootout scene, there is something almost sleepy about this Babes with Blades production of Jennifer L. Mickelson's play, which channels Willa Cather and Laura Ingalls Wilder in its portrayal of late-19th century settlers.
There are no men in the story, just memories of dead husbands, murdered fathers, long-lost brothers and the promise of would-be suitors. The women must look after themselves, which includes the enigmatic young wanderer of the title (a terrifically watchable Meredith Rae Lyons as Emmy), who arrives in town in search of refuge. As it happens, a bounty hunter with some scores to settle is on her tail.
Director Leigh Barrett doesn't go for melodrama, which is the right instinct. These performances are honest and true in their portrayal of the spareness of prairie life, but they never ignite. That's what happens when a story doesn't dig too deep or offers enough shadings.
Review: "Patchwork Drifter" by Babes with Blades
2 STARS
Through Sept. 19 at City Lit Theater, 1020 W. Bryn Mawr Ave.; $22 at babeswithblades.org.
nmetz@tribpub.com
