Review: Towne Street Theatre’s “In Response: RISE UP”

From left: Amorie Barton, Nina Kasuya, Parnell Damone Marcano, Josh Loren, Charlie Towle, Paul Sohm and Deja Monique Cruz in "We Are The People," part of Towne Street Theatre's "In Response: RISE UP" (Photo courtesy Towne Street Theatre)

Towne Street Theatre’s “In Response: RISE UP” is a bold and necessary anthology production that brings together a collection of short plays, monologues and scenes centered around the act of resistance. Each piece explores what it means to stand up against injustice and the ongoing persecution of people of color and Indigenous communities. Co-artistic producers Veronica McClelland and Sarah Allyn Bauer have crafted a show that does more than entertain—it provokes, challenges and invites its audience to look inward while rising in solidarity.

The cast features a dynamic ensemble of performers who each bring their own unique style and truth to the stage. Adrian A. Babatunde Thomas gives a deeply grounded and commanding portrayal of Frederick Douglass in Stephen Blackburn's “Frederick Douglass – Unexpected, 1884,” fully embodying the strength and resilience of the historical figure.

From left: Adrian A. Babatunde and De Ann Marie Odom in "Frederick Douglass – Unexpected, 1884," part of Towne Street Theatre's "In Response: RISE UP" (Photo courtesy Towne Street Theatre)

Joshua Loren shines as the host in “The Right to Life!” by Shanelle Darlene, balancing sharp satire with biting commentary that exposes how those in power often mock marginalized voices. And Parnell Damone Marcano’s performance in “A New America” is another standout. Humorous, heartfelt and emotionally charged, he walks the audience through the inner conflict of a Black man chasing the American Dream.

While each segment has its own director, the overall vision flows cohesively. One of the most powerful pieces, “We Are the People,” co-directed by Michael A. Shepperd and Deborah Sharpe Taylor, stands out for its bold staging and audience engagement. The visual use of red, white, and blue T-shirts combined with music and the ensemble’s unified presence reinforces the call for accountability and collective action.

From left: Nina Kasuya, Josh Loren and Paula Helena in "The Right to Life!" – part of Towne Street Theatre's "In Response: RISE UP" (Photo courtesy Towne Street Theatre)

Audrey Szot’s scenic design embraces simplicity, allowing the messages to remain front and center. Minimal set pieces are flown in between scenes, keeping transitions smooth and the audience’s focus intact. David Mac’s projector design adds depth and context, serving as an essential visual backdrop that enhances the tone of each performance. Cameron Knowles’s lighting and Mark McClain Wilson’s sound design work together seamlessly to underscore each emotional beat, elevating moments of tension, hope and reflection without overpowering the storytelling.

At its core, “RISE UP” is about unity, resilience and shared humanity. The production reminds us that injustice to one is injustice to all and challenges us to confront our own complacency. It pushes audiences to ask what “rising up” looks like in our daily lives. The messages are clear, heartfelt and impossible to ignore.

The audience’s response reflected the emotional spectrum of the show, from laughter in unexpected places to quiet reflection and thoughtful discussion between scenes. Though Act I could benefit from a slightly tighter pace, the overall experience remains deeply engaging and thought-provoking. In today’s social climate, “In Response: RISE UP” feels both timely and essential. It’s the kind of theatre that doesn’t just entertain, it awakens.

Towne Street Theatre’s “In Response: RISE UP” continues through Nov. 2 at the Stella Adler Academy of Acting & Theatre, 6773 Hollywood Blvd., Los Angeles, with shows Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 3 p.m. For tickets and information, visit TowneStreetLA.org.