Never having uploaded a dating app, you could say I was a fish out of water. However, I’ve seen enough movies – Looking for Mr. Goodbar from the ‘70s, the recent documentary The Tinder Swindler, as well as plenty of TV dramas and romcoms on the topic – to puzzle out how it works. Looking for love online is becoming less popular with Gen Z, who feel swiping right is transactional. But, hey, it’s still a thing.
In playwright Miriam Battye’s scathingly humorous two-hander, Jenny and Adam meet at a bar after finding each other online. We never learn what their common interests are for them to swipe right and that leaves us at a bit of a disadvantage. From the get-go Jenny gives Adam the third degree, psyching him out with intrusive questions about his life. Is it a test to see if he can put up with her? Is that where the title word “Strategic” applies? And does the word “Play” in the title refer to the fact that it’s a play or that they are just playing at love?
She’s crass, profane, insulting, and hyper-aggressive. He apologizes, a lot. But, for what? After one too many verbal punches from Jenny, he asks her, “Do I have to stay?” then tells her, “You’re just a narcissist, who’s not hot.” Wow, cringeworthy! Jenny is nonplussed. She continues her onslaught. He tells her he just wants a relaxing evening, but Jenny remains on the attack. “I wanna tear someone apart!” she admits. He wonders, “This isn’t for like a podcast,” he asks.
Notwithstanding the inquisition, Adam stays, and we’re left to wonder why. People are flawed. We get it. He’s submissive, she’s aggressive. Clearly, she’s crossed the line of any civilized convo. It’s no big surprise when we learn that Jenny is utterly insecure behind her feisty façade. So, what’s happening here? She confesses she’s angry that no man has ever “chosen” her.
When they finally get down to discussing their relationship expectations, she insists he be honest with her. You have to wonder why, during a first date, anyone would bare their souls on command to a contentious stranger. So, are they a match? Do opposites attract? I won’t reveal the ending (he’s not a serial killer) but if you took Psych 1 or follow Dr. Phil, you can probably guess.
Directed by Matthew Gardiner and starring two very fine actors, Danny Gavigan and Bligh Voth, this story is for those who have been down the rabbit hole of online dating.
Scenic Design by Paige Hathaway; Costume Design by Kathleen Geldard; Lighting Design by Andrew Cissna; Sound Design by Kenny Neal.
Through November 9 at Signature Theatre, in Shirlington Village, 4200 Campbell Avenue, Arlington, VA. For tickets and information call the box office at 703.820.9771 or visit www.SigTheatre.org.
