By Shirley Lorraine –
Santa Paula Theatre Center (SPTC) opens its 2026 season with a dark, sometimes disturbing, often hilarious dramedy by Branden Jacobs-Jenkins. Appropriate offers an in-depth look at three siblings who gather to administer the estate of their father.
Directed by Jessi May Stevenson, the play is a study in dysfunctional relationships, crumbling family ties, buried secrets and the roles that change as life presents its inevitable challenges.
The setting is the old family home, a run-down plantation structure somewhere in Arkansas. The oldest sibling, Toni (Cynthia Killion), who has been caregiver for dear old dad, has planned for the sale of contents of the dilapidated house. Younger brothers, Bo (Anthony E Cantrell), and Franz (James James) have been estranged for some time, meeting again still carrying heavy emotional baggage.
To Toni’s chagrin, Bo brings his wife and two kids along. Franz brings his girlfriend River (Haley Abbott), who, although attempting to instill light and love into the otherwise emotionally charged reunion, is not welcomed, causing additional friction.
Bo’s wife Rachel (Rosie Gordon) tries in vain to maintain some order in the process, at the same time struggling to rein in teen daughter Cassidy (Amber Shea Hodge) and young son Ainsley (Skylar Richards). Added to the mix is Rhys (Christopher Craven), Toni’s hormonal teen son.
As the entire entourage works desperately to create a suitable environment for an estate sale out of the house filled with hoarded, dusty life’s accumulations, ugly secrets become known. Revelations bring the sibling’s differences to a head, resulting in a complete breakdown of the family legacy.
On the surface, the play plot sounds depressing and dark. And it is, at times. It is also a frank look into the varying motivations of each person involved, along with lighter moments relating to cherished memories and the good times which are vital to recall. It provides insights into coping with grief, disappointment and surprises.
The play is a work of art. The writing is excellent; the cast is superb across the board. The detailed (and extensive) use and handling of props is carefully choreographed throughout. With a multi-level set design by Donnie D. Stroud the house itself makes a statement in the last moments, completing the artistic story. Stevenson’s direction of this complicated piece is masterful.
Take note of another creative step forward SPTC has taken – Performances are now being offered on Fridays at 8 p.m., Saturdays at 4:00 p.m., and Sundays at 2:30 p.m. This season’s first weekends now offer audiences discounted previews on Friday and Saturday, with the official opening on the first Sunday.
The 2026 season promises to be exciting, packed with a little something for every taste, giving voice to controversy, classics, and introspection. Details available on the website www.santapaulatheatercenter.org. Located at 125 South 7th St, Santa Paula. Now in its 41st year of presenting quality live theater. (805) 525-4645.
