VIDEO (and review): This Is Our Youth

Drew Nungesser and Ben Watt grew tired of waiting for the Drury Theatre Department to run a production of This Is Our Youth, so they took it into their own hands. With the help and support of Robert Westenberg and DU, they have been able to make it happen. The live production debuted Thursday night in the cozy confines of Drury’s Studio Theatre – the first of three free showings. It feels as though Kenneth Lonergan’s work was written directly from a transcript of a night with an unknown wiretap.

Nungesser plays Warren Straub, a young man who was just kicked out of his father’s house. Dark memories aren’t far from recall for Straub. Those thoughts weave into comedic moments with drug dealing friend Dennis Ziegler, played by Watt. The chemistry between the pair of offstage roommates is prevalent. Straub and Ziegler try to decide how to spend/return a large sum of stolen money. Cocaine is the answer they frequent.

Straub is unassuming, easy to relate to, but the volatile Ziegler makes it difficult to like either of them. It’s not that they’re bad people, they’re just trying to figure it out. They certainly represent (at least to a certain extent) the life of confused males after high school. It’s portrayed in foul mouthed humor, girl chasing and the search of head changing drugs and alcohol to chase away the past.

Of course, there’s a love interest for Straub, Jessica Goldman (played by Merri Yeager). It’s fun to recall your own first date jitters as Straub makes awkward advances.

This community theatre-esque production of This Is Our Youth is very well acted. The set consists of items from Nungesser and Watt’s home. It’s performed on no budget in tight quarters. Unless you’re in the front row, it’s difficult to see what’s happening, but conversation carries the play. If drug use and potty mouths offend you, this isn’t in your alley, otherwise do yourself (and your wallet) a favor and check out this free show. It shows tonight and Saturday as well.