The Magic Number, a series of 11 one-act plays performed by Liberty Bell Drama Company at the Merc Playhouse, continues its march of dystopian themes.
Themes include war, global warming, nihilism, loneliness, sexuality, cruelty, a search for meaning, murder and what at some moments this writer can only describe as the art form Dada.
Despite a rating of PG-13 and a warning on the flyer about “strong language and adult themes,” all MVSD students…
I found the Magic Number to be deeply provocative at times and comedically balanced as it explores some depths of humanism. Your claim of dystopian themes seems a bit off base as many of the pieces offered hope and resolve to difficult and awkward human relationships and circumstances. Others offered a moral ambiguity or in your words, nihilism, to ponder. The students chose their own pieces, so these are a reflection of the students’ own interests and aspirations. Mr. Grayum guides discussions and critical thought with students as they explore these topics in a structured environment. Because this collection of shorts tackles some uncomfortable a dark areas, I believe it’s a poignant reflection of a teenage experience. At times playfully innocent and hopeful, other times isolating and dark. The performers put on a great show and should feel proud for stretching their minds and spirits and challenging the audience.