Then, Eve by Billie Jane is a show that slipped my radar during this May’s Fringe Festival. It indeed got some buzz and awards, but I had heard about it too late. Very fortunately, there was a two-show engagement at The Center to act as a fundraiser ahead of a tour coming up shortly. This was a very intimate showing, with barebones lighting and a couple couches as part of the seating arrangement. A brief talkback followed.
The concept of the show adapts the ubiquitous Adam and Eve story from Christianity, repurposed to explore elements of identity. There was something so pure and fresh to the premise, executed by thoroughly exploring the space of the world and emotion of the character. It works fluidly, and keeps your attention locked on the subject and away from political talking points that have hijacked the topic at hand. The recontextualized tree of knowledge both provides a conclusion, and segues to the epilogue. It works elegantly. I hope to be just a bit vague here to not reveal much beyond the premise.
A small part of me wished I left before the talkback, not from disinterest, but because I think the piece stands entirely on its own. It is singular and it speaks for itself. But, part of the process of developing the show was shared, including an original ending that was much darker, and how it was not originally written for a solo performer. Getting some insight into this left me feeling quite inspired, and I am glad I stayed.
The next time I see Billie Jane’s name next to a show as either a writer, performer, or both, I will not miss my chance to be there.