“Next Fall” is a moving story by Geoffrey Nauffts about gay rights, coming out, religion and tragedy with a mix of humor. Adam (indomitable Danny Scheie) is an avowed gay atheist who carries the heavy load of dialogue with just enough control to keep his character believable. Luke (delightful Adam Shonkwiler) is young and handsome, and raised a devout Catholic who prays for forgiveness after sex. He has not told his family about living with Adam for the past four years – but destiny has made the time and place for his coming out a hospital, where family and friends gather to hope Luke pulls through from a serious auto accident.
The storyline takes us back and forth from the hospital waiting room to times in the past, showing how the pair met and developed their relationship.
This is a first-rate cast that completely releases themselves to their roles. They are James Carpenter (Butch, Luke’s homophobic, bigoted father), Rachel Harker (Arlene, Luke’s mother and Butch’s ex), Lindsey Gates (Holly, Luke’s friend and confident) and Ryan Tasker (Brandon, Luke’s friend).
Director Kirsten Brandt brings in a strong second act where poignant moments play out the secret and a confrontation as they try to understand the significance of what has been.
Scenic designer Annie Smart’s sparse hospital waiting room smoothly changes to the flashback locations and the scenes are seamless and skillful.
Some of “Next Fall’s” gay problems – which were prevalent in the ’80s – have legally been solved, but this play shows what happens when some situations are not covered.
Camille Bounds is the theatre and arts editor for Sunrise Publications.
