Everything Else Is War

My overall impression

Had I bothered to check the description of the play before I entered the theater, I would have been better prepared for the evening. Even in hindsight, although it accurately states that the show is about Ulysses S. Grant, it was much more than that.

Growing up in Virginia, history has always been a big part of my life. I must admit that I had bought in to the historical myths about Grant, which this play so adequately dispelled. What emerged was a new and compelling look at the person who was Grant.

This show is a definite work in progress, with a dynamic prognosis. It was compelling, intriguing, insightful and educational.

What needs work is the delivery. I was left wondering if Ryan Fabian meant to come across as an Inspector Clousseau clone, or if he was simply nervous. The storyline came out fast and furious at times, and slow and slurred at others, almost as if he was getting drunk (and he did keep drinking something out of a wine bottle).

What was important was the story, which came through loud and clear – I will never look at Grant the same again. Kudos for a worthy effort!