Theater Review – December 6, 2025

EXQUISITIVELY PRESENTED “REYKJAVIK” TACKLES DAY-TO-DAY CHALLENGES WITH INTENSITY

Reykjavik”
Stray Cat Theatre, Studio Theatre, Tempe Center for the Arts
Tempe, AZ

By Chris Curcio
Theater Critic

Stray Cat Theatre successfully tackles another thoughtful Steve Yockey play, “Reykjavik.”  As it unfolds, the piece explores a variety of episodes people face daily plus a dash of Icelandic folklore, Huldufolk, which means a hidden people or elves.  It is an intriguing and most unusual drama.

Lead character James has traveled to see the Northern Lights but he failed to research the phenomenon so his timing makes sighting them impossible.  Instead, his adventures lead to many diverse situations such as encountering weird and craving birds outside his hotel room and many strangers with ulterior motives.  Providing more plot details will destroy the script’s intrigues best discovered when engaged in the production.

Like Yockey’s previous plays, “Reykjavik” keeps theatergoers involved and lapsing concentration even for a moment may cause theatergoers to not fully understand James’ strange and revealing journey.  The play has periods of intense suspense that thrill and comic moments that delight.  James’ many discoveries will guide his perceptions of life and his encounters include many he did not expect.

The play will challenge audiences.  The lengthy opening is presented while loud and discordant music plays establishing “Reykjavik’s” strange revelations.  The deafening music requires dialogue during this segment to be projected to ensure audience understanding as plot and character traits are revealed.  Other unusual character behaviors are cleverly handled.

As always, the Stray Cat production is exquisitely presented.  Dori Brown’s stark white set perfectly captures the desolate Icelandic locale and Ron May’s thoughtful staging is designed to bring out every story facet with pointed urgency.  The production elements are complimented by a fine acting ensemble who bring rich characterizations to the many involved participants.

Ty Klassen’s James explores the many adventures that cause the mild-mannered, quiet character to evolve into rage when certain events trigger his more violent and hidden self.  Andrew Gray is the inquisitive Martin but both performers play multiple smaller parts as do the other fine players including Raijene Ayme, Devon Mahon, Elizabeth Broeder, and Aaron Camnmack.

The short play is direct and does not have an intermission which helps audiences deal with the intensity.  “Reykjavik” is a complex and fascinating portrait of everyday life and the challenges people face.  “Reykjavik” continues through December 20.  To order tickets, call the Tempe Center for the Arts box office at 480-350-2822 or order tickets online at www.tempecenterforthearts.com.

Grade: A