Dayton’s Human Race Theater Company opens their 40th anniversary season as a regional professional theatre with Dad’s Place – A Farce by Jake Lockwood. This winning World Premiere is equal parts Greater Tuna and Grumpy Old Men. With rapid-fire antics and witty banter, the play explores the love and chaos between grown children and parents and the absurdity that comes with sorting through decades of family baggage.
The Plot
We first meet Paul (Jason Podplesky), a successful LA writer. He finds himself in a sparse New York apartment in order to reignite his creative muse and to take care of his aging father who lives in the same building. Along the way we are introduced to a cacophony of characters (all played by Bruce Cromer). We meet an eccentric aunt, an enigmatic window washer, and a ballbuster superintendent known as “Soup,” among many others.
As Paul attempts to escape the stress of his corporate life by spending time with his quirky dad, the process of organizing old trophies, forgotten regrets, and unspoken words proves far from easy. Through laughter, punchy dialogue and a host of quick change characters, Dad’s Place becomes a celebration of family messes and the unexpected joy found in connecting with loved ones when life feels most complicated.
The Acting
Jason Podplesky brings sincere comic timing and warmth to the role of Paul. He effortlessly captures the anxieties and aspirations of a writer in search of deeper meaning in a mountain of childhood memories. Bruce Cromer brings lightning fast quick changes and shifts seamlessly between multiple characters making each one distinct and memorable. The chemistry between Podplesky and Cromer is the true star driving humor, heart, and balancing slapstick energy with genuine connection in every zany moment on stage. The two of them are national treasures and should be protected at all costs!
Creative Team
Led by director Joe Deer, the creative team behind Dad’s Place exemplifies the high production values of The Human Race Theater Company. Each member contributes a distinct artistic vision. Dick Block’s scenic design transforms the Loft Theatre stage into a cozy yet chaotic apartment, providing a dynamic backdrop for the play’s comic energy. Block evens include movable window scaffolding that serves as an unexpected entrance and exit. Molly Walz’s costumes support the farcical quick changes with lightning speed while allowing each character to look and feel different from the next. Matthew P. Benjamin’s lighting and Kaitlin Barnett Proctor’s sound design add to each scene. Finally, Sarah Gomes’s clever attention to properties fills the space with authentic details, ensuring both visual charm and comic potential throughout the performance.
Executive Leadership
Look, it’s no secret that I am a huge fan of The Human Race Theater Company. Under the executive direction of Kappy Kilburn and artistic direction of Emily Wells, HRT is one of the strongest professional regional theater companies I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know and review. From the stories they craft on stage to their smart and progressive administrative practices, they know how to do theater, and they know how to do it well! Celebrating their 40th anniversary season, the Loft Theatre has a refreshed lobby space and a killer season lined up that I cannot wait to fully explore.
Tickets to Dad’s Place
Dad’s Place – A Farce runs through September 14, 2025. For tickets visit www.humanracetheatre.org or call the box office at (937) 228-3630.
