From the first word — the C-word — you know this is a production that is going to “go there” in the most hilarious way possible. And it does not disappoint. Everyman Theatre is truly doing its part for the political season with this piece of comedic satire. POTUS: Or Behind Every Great Dumbass Are Seven Women Trying to Keep Him Alive has been well written by Selina Fillinger and adeptly directed by Laura Kepley. While this play is not for the faint of heart or easily offended, it will have you asking that burning question “Why aren’t you President?”
I honestly couldn’t ask for a better, more upbeat play to stage during a time of such political unrest. Centered around a POTUS (even though the only thing you ever see of him is his leg) and his path of self-sabotage are the women in his orbit. Whether tied to him through marriage or unbending and often undeserved loyalty, they cross all kinds of boundaries to protect him from everything, even to their own detriment. Honestly, it gives House of Cards with a punch line.
From the very first scene with Jean, portrayed by Tuyết Thị Phạm, and Harriet, played by Deborah Hazlett, the show grabs you and never lets go. Even though Jean is small in physicality, she is huge in stature. She is witty and so nonchalant about the chaos teeming around her you must be impressed. And even though Harriet is clearly exasperated by all the problems that POTUS creates for her, she is the image of what you imagine the Chief of Staff to be: strong, capable, and authoritative. These ladies should be proud of the performance they turn in.
Chinai Routté, acting as FLOTUS Margaret, is pure gold. She is without a doubt regal and poised, even when she decides she’s had enough. She is entertaining and elegantly dressed down to the questionable footwear. We will thank the costume designer, David Burdick, for all the finery. The stagehands are dressed as the Secret Service. Loved the minute attention to details. I could almost get behind Crocs being worn with evening attire.
The neurotic Stephanie, depicted by Megan Anderson, is hilarious. From her “taking up space stances” to her moment of clarity during a phone call, she always had me laughing.
And you have to delight in and loathe Dusty, who is well played by Katie Kleiger. She is so naïve but still able to hold her own. Although her idea of doing her duty for the country makes you question her moral standards, she is ultimately a woman who could not be ignored or made to do something she didn’t want to do.
Beth Hylton, our prisoner in limbo, represents Bernadette, POTUS’ troublesome lesbian sister. This woman has “a guy” for everything. She is crazy funny, and I believed her as scheming sister trying to get her girl and her freedom.
And what is craziness in the White House without a nosy reporter trying to stay relevant? Enter Chris, depicted by Saron Araia. She gives you brand-new single mom, trying to find her footing in a world where every day is a struggle to keep her head above the tide waters. I was smitten with her portrayal of her character, down to the little dance she does for her usurping co-worker.
Everything about this play is done skillfully. The very Presidential and well-executed White House set designed by Daniel Ettinger is a bit of wonder. The rotating scenes, and well-thought-out and sometimes-used décor pieces help take this production to the next level.
It was a bit loud at times. But honestly, how else are you going to hear the actresses over the laughter?
Ultimately this play was everything I wanted and needed. It gives you a break from the endless news cycles of our potential presidents and the upcoming election without guilt. No defending one’s political views or trying to sway anyone over to any political agenda. It was simple, joyous laughter with a lesson that women are often ignored and overlooked — until someone has a “c***y morning.”
Running Time: 90 minutes plus a 15-minute intermission.
POTUS: Or Behind Every Great Dumbass Are Seven Women Trying to Keep Him Alive plays through June 9, 2024, at Everyman Theatre, 315 West Fayette St., Baltimore, MD. Purchase tickets ($5–$92) online or contact the box office by phone at 410-752-2208 (Monday–Friday, 10 a.m.–4 p.m., and Saturday, 12-4 p.m.) or email boxoffice@everymantheatre.org.
Accessibility: Everyman emphasizes their commitment to accessibility for all, including those with economic challenges, with Pay What You Choose prices.
The cast and creative credits are online here (scroll down).
COVID Safety: Masks are encouraged, though not required. Everyman’s complete health and safety guide is here.
POTUS: Or Behind Every Great Dumbass Are Seven Women Trying to Keep Him Alive
By Selina Fillinger
Directed by Laura Kepley
Lighting Design by Emma Deane
Sound Design by Cresent Haynes
Wig Design by Denise O’Brien
Choreography by Shalyce Hemby
Fights & Intimacy by Lewis Shaw
Dramaturgy by Robyn Quick
Stage Management by Cat Wallis & Che Wernsman
