THE HANGOVER REPORT – Chiara Atik’s new play BUMP charms at Ensemble Studio Theatre

Lauren Ramadei, Gilbert Cruz, Kelli Lynn Harrison, and Susan Hyon in Ensemble Studio Theatre's production of "Bump" by Chiara Atik.

Lauren Ramadei, Gilbert Cruz, Kelli Lynn Harrison, and Susan Hyon in Ensemble Studio Theatre’s production of “Bump” by Chiara Atik.

Yesterday, I also caught Chiara Atik’s heartwarming new family comedy Bump – concerning the mysteries and contradictions of pregnancy and the process of giving birth – at Ensemble Studio Theatre. The production, which is also being presented by the Sloan Project, continues EST’s mission to develop and present compelling new works. Ms. Atik’s simple, unassuming play is sweet and affirmative, and I was thoroughly charmed by it. It’s a play that refreshingly knows exactly what it is and expertly delivers on its promise.

Much of the production’s gently infectious delights come from the work of its uncommonly wonderful cast – Kristen Adele, Kelly Anne Burns, Gilbert Cruz, Lucy DeVito, Kelli Lynn Harrison, Susan Hyon, Erica Lutz, Ana Nogueira, Jenny O’Hara, Laura Ramadei, Adriana Sananes and Jonathan Randell Silver each gave performances that oozed heart. Under the astute direction Claudia Weill, these performances popped and had me smiling practically nonstop throughout its 80-minute running time.

RECOMMENDED

 

BUMP
Off-Broadway, Play
Ensemble Studio Theatre, in collaboration with the Sloan Project
1 hour, 20 minutes (without an intermission)
Through June 3

Categories: Off-Broadway, Theater

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