Kaitlyn Fowler, Sharon Maguire, Pierre Walters, K.S. Garner, and Rakell Foye. Photo by Shealyn Jae Photography.
Scientists have repeatedly demonstrated the important codependent elements of the global ecosystem reiterating that the destruction of one of those elements can prove to be catastrophic regardless of the element’s physical size. To open its 2025 season, Rapid Lemon Productions presents the world premiere of “Honey Bee Baby” which explores this concept. Written by playwright Erlina Ortiz, the play reveals a futuristic world without honey bees which are crucial to the world ecosystem for human survival.
Director Jalice Ortiz-Corral unfolds the story in a captivating manner… thought-provoking and entertaining.
Government approval and testing is now a prerequisite for women desiring to have babies via the conventional method. These women are referred to as the “Randoms” as they are frowned upon by their counterparts, the “Engins.” The Engins, considering themselves the superior race of society, live in underground mansions and were conceived in laboratories via test tubes. In calling attention to subject matters of climate change, destruction of the natural ecosystems, and depletion of natural resources, playwright Ortiz brilliantly draws our attention to one undeniable truth—humans need to procreate. Within this framework, we are introduced to Melisa (Rakell Foye) and Clarisa (K.S. Garner), two women seeking to extend their lives. Melisa, desperately wanting to have a child with her husband Ray (Isaiah C. Evans), has found it difficult to pass the governmental mandated test. Clarisa, having lived a sheltered, underground mansion life, is finding it hard to pass a government mandated test proving her superiority as an Engin. Director Jalice Ortiz-Corral unfolds the story in a captivating manner that holds your attention.
Set designer Justin Nepomuceno has created a set, complemented by Martin Smith lighting design, that is simple yet extremely efficient. For example, stage right contains a white partition that allows the color of the partition to change based on the lighting choice and it accents other scenery pieces. In addition, a projection screen upstage also becomes a window and a television throughout the play. Various set pieces are also used to indicate a change in locale. Having attended previous productions at The Strand Theater, this technique worked well in this particular space.
Sound/Projection design by Max Garner was spot on! The sound cues fill the house in a way to create a certain believability while remaining subtle. To further enhance the overall theatrical experience, this production uses screen projection to broadcasts a live weather report to announce the onset of a storm.
Throughout this production, the importance of the of the honeybee is expressed both overtly and covertly. For example, costume designer Deana Fisher Brill has Clarisa in a dark yellow dress. Another example is with Maria, portrayed by Kaitlyn Flower, whose companion is an electronic honeybee.
When human emotions flare up, Combat/Intimate Director Mel Gabel has skillfully directed the intense, physical contact. During one particular scene, Melisa and Mother (Sharon Maguire) have an emotionally and physically-charged moment. The audience is pulled into this interaction by the precision of its execution. This becomes a defining moment for Melisa and Mother as both women are now seen as mothers with their own individual perspectives, regardless of their differences. Throughout the play, it is difficult to discern if Clarisa is a Random or an Engin. Garner brings a rare quality to the character which results in fine acting.
Rapid Lemon Productions’ presentation of “Honey Bee Baby” is thought-provoking and very entertaining. It also marks the beginning of the company’s two-year residency at The Strand Theater.
Running Time: One hour 45 minutes with a 15-minute intermission.
“Honey Bee Baby” runs through January 26, 2025 presented by Rapid Lemon Productions at the Strand Theater, 5426 Harford Road, Baltimore, MD 21214. For more information and to purchase tickets, please go online. NOTE: Masks will only be required for the January matinee performance.
