By Liz Eichler
Clifton Players are presenting the fascinating “story theatre” style production of Ryan’s Pub, Trivia Night, a play by Alec Silberblatt. What begins as a familiar barroom competition escalates into something far more sinister.
Featuring just two performers (plus director Kevin Crowley’s offstage voice of “Glen”), the play presents how one trivia night became a life-or-death event—and cautions you about betting against your demons.
Originally conceived as a staged reading, the actors occasionally reference their scripts. This does not detract from the impact of the piece nor the quick pacing, except for a brief lull in the second act. In fact, I initially mistook Marci as a phone addict–a bold character choice–versus relying on her script.
Silberblatt understands the stakes of trivia culture, has fun with the competitive spirit, and pushes the boundaries as he spins this Faustian tale. His dialogue firmly plants us in a blue-collar Pittsburgh neighborhood, rich with attitude. While the emotional motivations of the characters are clear, our team–the “Monongahela Monsters”–could use a bit more origin story.
The Plot: The (now) second-place team narrates the last time they won—and it’s a doozy. Without giving anything away, it entails regulars and newbies, cheating, and bargaining for your life.
Performances
Denise Dal Vera captures the grit of a woman whose weekly highlight is trivia night—and the drinking that accompanies it. A smoker with a sharp Pittsburgh accent, she’s wholly believable and sharp. She’s the kind of person who’s magnetic and funny–until provoked. Her retail job does not define her. Even if a questionable wig distracts, her performance overrides it.
Ryan Bowron plays Richie, a man who collects and studies Trivial Pursuit cards and knows that “50% of winning is luck—and 25% is convincing your partner your answer is right.” Bowron layers Richie with bravado and self-awareness; he knows he’s often “a loser,” but trivia is where he can win. And the team does often, until a new team shows up. The chemistry between Bowron and Dal Vera crackles, they play off of each other well, despite the occasional reliance on the script.
The production unfolds in the Lounge at Liberty Exhibition Hall, a setting that enhances the dive-bar authenticity. Kudos to Stage Manager and Lighting/Sound Designer Annette Ouchie for enhancing the immersive atmosphere. Stuart Wheaton and Kevin Kunz also contribute strong backstage support.
Conclusion
While you’re not on the line, brush up on your trivia (HINT: revisit the songs of Samantha Fox) and get ready to listen to an outlandish tale about what kind of bargains we make when the stakes are high.
So yinz eat your pierogies and let’s go dahn the pub.
Tickets to Ryan’s Pub, Trivia Night
It is a casual (and early) night, as all shows start at 7 pm. Ryan’s Pub, Trivia Night runs Friday through Sunday at 7 p.m. at the Lounge at Liberty Exhibition Hall. Tickets are available at the door or online HERE.
