The Mutualistic Melody

When three men’s lives unexpectedly become intertwined due to the suicide of a woman they unknowingly shared, human relationships are suddenly tested in a manner that none of them could have imagined.

Directed by Taylor Rascher, The Mutualistic Melody written by playwright W.R. Heipascher is considered by the two as a neoclassic piece which delivers a host of lengthy dramatic monologues and emotional outpours about life and love from a morbid perspective.

As the play opens, a heated argument is occurring between friends Dan (Zac Brightbill) and decorated police officer Sigmund (J. Robert Raines,) although it is unknown why the two are upset. The next scene consists of a restrained therapy session between Dr. Osbourne (Raoul Anderson) and Sigmund, who attempts to release the demons he holds so dear. And then we find Dr. Osbourne and Dan having a casual drink together with the doctor confessing about a secret love.

The play is set in Sigmund’s living room, Dr. Osbourne’s office and a local bar. If there appears to be a disconnect, your assumption is not far from the truth. Relying solely on the synopsis, the viewers are left struggling to figure out the points of strife among each relationship.

Brightbill, as Dan the antagonist, plays his part well; his lengthy lines and feigned concern for his friend Sigmund is believable. Sigmund’s emotions are all over the place, but Raines deserves an A for effort here as well as for the fact that his last scene with Dr. Osbourne is compelling.

Anderson does his best to remain neutral in his roles – Dr. Osbourne’s relationship with each individual is varied.

While the performances are admirable and the premise interesting, the play did not translate well onstage. When one defines a play as a neoclassic as well as challenging the way one defines social interactions, it raises expectations. Unfortunately, by not connecting to the audience immediately, and not providing a clear path to follow the lengthy script, The Mutualistic Melody left many scratching their heads. By the end, some may have figured out how a woman’s suicide could affect these three men but, by that time, it was too late.

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