A faultless alternate cast prove especially effective in bringing Michael Perlman’s At The Table to freshly energized life at the Road Theatre on Lankershim.

Jon Sprik gives weekend-in-the-country host Nick a good-guy likability that makes him an ideal fit for the role opposite an electrifying Ben Theobald as his longtime bestie (and fellow bet-maker) Stuart.

 Danny Gomez is not only charismatic, in-the-moment perfection as gay downer Elliott,

his scenes opposite Melvin Ward’s dynamic Nicholas (think Denzel Washington circa St. Elsewhere) positively crackle,

and when Anthony Sorrells’ feisty-and-fabulous Leif shows up in Act Two, there can be no doubt that these two are made for each other.

Julia Manis makes a striking Road Theatre mainstage debut as an equal-parts tough and tender Chris, and

statuesque stunner Audrey Cain’s post-intermission arrival as the deliciously ditzy Sophie is one well worth waiting for.

Adding extra excitement to the sixth-and-final alternate cast performance was main-cast star Cherish Monique Duke as linchpin Lauren, an already riveting performance energized by a brand-new set of fellow players.

–Steven Stanley
June 27, 2019
Photos: Lizzy Kimball