We are the only species capable of reasoning, analyzing and creating answers when there are no real answers. Death-related explanations rarely satisfy and frequently open doors to more questions. Once the shock wears off, all we can do is accept lasting stings, which lessen over time but remain a part of life.
Based on the novel by Ali Benjamin and adapted for the stage by Keith Bunin, Berkeley Rep’s stunning production of “The Thing About Jellyfish” is sensitively directed by Tyne Rafaeli. It is the story of a young girl who loses her best friend. She escapes into her imagination, searching for how and why this friend drowned. Recollections and flashbacks bring up a maze of possibilities before resolving the inexplicable into an acceptable reality.
Teenager Matilda Lawler gives an astounding performance supplemented by a group of equally notable Broadway actors. The wonderful production includes digitally inventive lighting and videos appropriate for a web-searching story. “Jellyfish” is an achievement best seen sooner rather than later when someone thinks they can improve on what is best in its presented form. Go see it. You can thank me afterwards for this enthusiastic recommendation.
The world premiere of “The Thing About Jellyfish” at Berkeley Rep’s Roda Theatre runs through March 9.
Raul Gallyot is a member of the San Francisco Bay Area Theatre Critics Circle whose theater reviews may be heard on KWMR Radio’s “Airwaves.” He lives in Inverness.