by Marie Loggia
In Orange County
September 25, 1998

I've seen Rent. I like The Last Session better.

I know, those are fighting words for the hordes of Rent fans that have traveled across the country, catching the award-winning production. But where Rent captures audiences with its glamour, The Last Session will woo them with its honesty.

Never one to shy away from topics, The Laguna Playhouse opened its new season with the off-Broadway, musical comedy The Last Session. The play is set in a recording studio where Gideon, a talented musician in the later stages of AIDS, is recording his final album for his lover Jack. While Gideon cannot control much in his life, he can have control over his death, and he plans to take his life the next day.

To help with the recording of the album, Gideon (Bob Stillman) invites several other artists that have worked with him over the years. Tryshia, played by Michele Mais, is a strong black woman who's centered her life on raising her five kids rather than pursuing a blockbuster "Whitney-like" musical career. Vicki, who's played by the original Broadway actress Amy Coleman, possess a sassy mouth but understanding heart. Jim, P.M. Howard, runs the studio and is the only one present who knows of Gideon's upcoming plans. Finally, there's Buddy, Joel Traywick, who needs to overcome his religious prejudices to find Gideon's true persona.

The entire cast of The Last Session excels. I was quite impressed with not only the acting but the vocal ability of the group. While Mais and Coleman reach different octaves, the unifying force is breathtaking. Particular note has to be given to Stillman, who originated the role of Gideon in New York. From the moment Stillman took the stage, the audience was enraptured. Bravo.

The songs of The Last Session are emotionally challenging and eye opening. The tracks offer more than a glimpse into the world of those with HIV and the people who love them. Two that are particularly touching are "Somebody's Friend," which tackles the "myths" of those who survive, and "The Group," a chilling incantation that chronicles how each member contracted HIV. Several years ago, my older cousin passed away from an AIDS-related illness; I wasn't told until after the fact. The Last Session revitalizes the old cliché that life is too short - even for those non-positive.