In the realm of theater, a fascinating dichotomy emerges. On one hand, we have the solitary brilliance of a one-woman play like 'Eleanor' performed by Deborah Persoff at Vintage Theatre. At 77, she took on the challenging role of First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt, showcasing her multi-layered talent. On the other hand, we see the collaborative efforts in plays like 'Where Did We Sit on the Bus?' where Satya Chávez took on a gender-reversed role, exploring profound themes through a unique perspective.

Unraveling the Magic of Solo and Ensemble Theater Performances

The NBA Analogy in Theater

Just as referees in the NBA sometimes miss blatant initiating fouls but never miss the retaliatory shot, in theater, actors face similar challenges. When an actor forgets lines in a stage play, they often go mute, but if a castmate helps, it's usually the helper who looks lost. This shows the delicate balance between individual and collective efforts in theater.

For instance, in 'The Lehman Trilogy', with more than 50 characters but only three actors playing them, the charm lies in the economic reality that smaller casts make productions more feasible. It's a testament to the adaptability of theater in different contexts.

The Rise of Small and Single-Cast Plays

In recent years, small and single-cast plays have become more prevalent. They cost less to produce, making them appealing to performing-arts groups struggling to recover from the pandemic. For example, the DCPA Theatre Company offered two such plays in 2024.

Local theater companies are now presenting variations of 'A Christmas Carol' with six or fewer actors. This shift reflects the changing economic landscape and the demand for more accessible theater experiences.

The Art of Solo Performance

Solo performance is an art form in itself. Megan Van De Hey, an award-winning actor, highlights the challenges and rewards. There's no exchange of energy with other actors, but the actor has full control over the scene.

Hope Anderjack's performance in 'The Amish Project' shows the diversity of solo plays. She had to play various townspeople with different viewpoints, demonstrating the depth and complexity that solo performances can offer.

Unique Solo Plays and Their Impact

Buba Basishvili's 'The Bluebird' is a bittersweet theatrical poem that explores immigrant themes. His wordless piece weaves pantomime and physical comedy to create a timeless story.

John Jankow's 'Every Brilliant Thing' at the Little Theatre of the Rockies is another example. It touches on profound themes of a mother's suicide and the search for beauty in life. His warm and friendly performance leaves a lasting impression.

Denver's Theater Scene: A Melting Pot of Stories

Denver's theater scene is a vibrant mix of solo and ensemble performances. From Denise Olson-Perry's 'My Brilliant Divorce' to Jenny Weiss's 'Who's Holiday', each play tells a unique story.

These plays not only showcase the talent of individual actors but also contribute to the rich tapestry of Denver's theater community. They offer audiences a diverse range of experiences and emotions.

The Unsung Heroes of Theater

Dan Graeber, an expert music director, plays a crucial role behind the scenes. His work in bringing 'That Parenting Musical' to off-Broadway and helming other shows highlights the importance of collaborative efforts in theater.

His professionalism and preparedness are exemplary, adding another layer of excellence to the Denver theater scene.