Cloud Nine Review

-- Matthew Schmittdiel

The fall production "Cloud Nine" was recently put on by a small department of dedicated individuals called the Metropolitan Theater Underground. Directed by Scott M. Rubsam, the play explores the gray area of human sexuality that is so often ignored. Many of the themes were quite uncomfortable, epitomized in scenes of pederasty that contrast sharply with the innocence of childhood. Dealing with these issues was like having the soul shoved through a blender.

The play explores two British eras: the Victorian era and the eighties. It is two acts of opposing sexual values. Repression of things like homosexuality and adultery dominate the first act. The second act is set during the revolution of homosexuality in the London eighties. While difficult to sit through at times, the play was overall quite entertaining. One would be hard pressed to find a better way to spend a Saturday afternoon: a beautiful campus, quality theater, and exquisite talent.

The opening scene unfolded to an audience of less then twenty. The racy nature and obscure title might have accounted for the low turnout. While it is clear that the cast and crew of the play were working with a limited budget, the acting was superb. Many of the actors were Metro State students pursuing degrees in either theater or screenwriting, and community faculty member Rubsam.