The Garbologists, Lindsay Joelle’s off-beat buddy comedy, kicks off Ensemble Theater Cincinnati’s 39th season with a refreshing take on the value of human connection. The play follows Danny, a gruff NYC sanitation worker, and Marlowe, an Ivy League-educated newcomer, as they navigate their daily trash collection route. As these polar opposites bicker and bond, they discover that there’s more to each other–and the discarded items they collect–than meets the eye.
Performances
Torie Wiggins brings a captivating blend of determination and vulnerability to Marlowe, skillfully peeling back layers of her characters complex persona throughout the performance. Nathan Neorr’s portrayal of Dany is equally impressive, infusing the role with a perfect balance of rough-edged charm and hidden depth. Their on-stage chemistry crackles with authenticity, making their journey from adversaries to unlikely allies both believable and deeply satisfying.
Direction for The Garbologists
Under the direction of D. Lynn Meyers, The Garbologists shines as a testament to her enduring commitment to bringing thought-provoking, high-quality theater to Cincinnati. Meyers’ deft touch is evident in the productions pacting and emotional nuance, further cementing her reputation as one of the city’s most accomplished directors.
Design Team
The technical aspects of the show are quite remarkable and what we’ve come to expect from an Ensemble show. Scenic designer Brian Mehring’s creation of a moving garbage truck on stage is a true highlight, eliciting audible gasps and delighted murmurs from the audience. This innovative set piece not only serves as a function backdrop but also becomes a character in its own right, symbolizing the ever-changing landscape of Danny and Marlowe’s relationship.
The rest of the technical team behind The Garbologists bring the gritty reality of New York City’s sanitation world to vivid life on stage. Lighting Designer Chris Lipstreu’s work uses subtle shifts in illumination to guide the audiences’ focus and cleverly simulate the changing streetlights of the city. Sound Designer Trey Tatum creates an immersive urban soundscape that blends seamlessly with the live action, while Projections Designer Becca Shall adds visual depth to the urban landscape. Costume Designer Hannah Dringenburg’s attention to detail in the characters’ wardrobes enhances their authenticity, from work-worn uniforms to off-duty attire. Together, these technical elements shine a harsh yet captivating light on the often overlooked underbelly of New York City, transforming the stage into a believable slice of urban grit and bringing the world of sanitation workers vividly to life.
Summary of The Garbologists
At its core, The Garbologists invites us to reconsider our perceptions of value, both in objects and in people. Just as one person’s trash can be another’s treasure, the play suggests that the most meaningful connections often arise in unexpected places. Like the discarded items Danny and Marlowe encounter, people too can be misjudged, overlooked, or cast aside. Yet, with a willingness to look deeper, we might discover hidden worth and beauty in both the things–and the individuals–we encounter in our daily lives.
Ticket Information
The Garbologists runs from September 14 to October 6, 2024, at Ensemble Theater Cincinnati. Performances are Tuesday through Saturday at 7:30pm. Matinees on Saturday and Sunday at 2:00pm. Tickets start at $30 for adults, with discounted prices for students and children.
Fore more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.ensemblecincinnati.org or call the box office at 513-421-3555. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience a play that will change the way you look at garbage trucks and the people around you.
