Review by Jeanne Kinley Deller:

While ArtsWest’s Seattle premiere of Skeleton Crew was written by Dominique Morisseau to portray Detroit’s 2008 Great Recession, her heart-rending theme of inequitable working conditions continues to ring true across the nation today. Exploring the topic of factory workers whose livelihoods are in grave peril due to impending layoffs, each of the four characters profoundly conveys the repercussions of corporate America run amok.

Skeleton Crew’s simple replica of a true-to-factory break-room provides a safety net for exasperated union members. In an atmosphere tightly controlled by higher-ups, each employee is forced to succumb to a pecking order. Tracy Michelle Hughes (Faye) is outstanding in her role as the (mostly) steadfast lead, with Allyson Lee Brown (Shanita), Charles Wright (Dez), and Allen Miller III (Reggie) bringing tremendous strength and skill in depicting underdogs fighting for survival.

Hats off to ArtsWest Artistic Director Mathew Wright and Skeleton Crew’s Director Jay O’Leary for their attention to detail across the board. Skeleton Crew, as the first play of ArtsWest 2018/19 season, promises yet another riveting season in the works.

You won’t want to miss Skeleton Crew, at ArtsWest in West Seattle now through October 14. Get your tickets now to experience this timely, profound glimpse of Dominique Morisseau’s American narrative.

Already have your tickets? Support this local theatre by spreading the word & inviting friends to their Facebook event page.

Photos by John McLellan.