Review of An Infinite Ache

Written by Brenda Forsyth, Quick Critic

Run, do not walk to see An Infinite Ache.  It’s the kind of play theatre-goers search for; a unique experience that leaves you so moved, it lingers in your mind for days. I take away that feeling from Theatre Horizon many times. It never fails to deliver and it exceeds my expectations. Honestly I have never been disappointed with their productions. They are simply extraordinary.

Sit back in those very comfortable seats of the new and intimate Theatre Horizon and prepare yourself for a treat.

The only characters are Charles (Griffin Stanton-Ameisen ) and Hope (Bi Jean Ngo). Their love story takes place in Los Angeles; it begins with their awkward first date and within 90 minutes they journey through all the different stages of how their married life could play-out. The actors give outstanding performances and are very believable in their roles of Charles and Hope. They are an interfaith couple; he is Jewish and she is Asian in their mid-twenties.

The stage setting is simple and as cleverly created as are the transitions of time passing through their stages of married life.  For example: an armful of bundled laundry quickly becomes a baby bundled in his blanket.

An Infinite Ache is classified as a romantic comedy but to me it is more of a romantic drama with enough comedy that depicts true life…a balance of sadness, happiness and humor.

Looking for a restaurant before or after the play? You’re in for another treat at Dolce Vita.  It is an old converted house  with a homey atmosphere owned and operated by Frank Tierney, who is a most welcoming host and his beautiful wife Yolanda. Frank also introduced us to their two lovely sons. It’s easy to see why you feel right at home…. it is their home; they live upstairs. Their food is wonderfully prepared ‘homemade’ classic Italian. Desserts are also homemade. Food is made to order from scratch and Frank is very accommodating to requests.  Yolanda is Mexican and on weekends they also serve authentic Mexican cuisine. The food is delicious and reasonably priced. It was another great experience.