By Yani Perez…
La MaMa’s premiere of Class Dismissed, written by Robert Lyons and directed by Daniel Irizarry, is a wild ride through the surreal world of academia and philosophy, serving up a mix of lecture, party, and fever dreams.
The show follows Professor Watson and a cohort of lively students as they catalog the “unwritten works” of a fictional author. Through absurd lectures, rebellious performances, and a series of increasingly wild tangents, the characters explore ideas about knowledge, capitalism, rebellion, and human connection. Meanwhile, “The Other Lit Professor” drifts through the action with romantic and poetic interludes, adding to the show’s layered, unpredictable fabric. There are times when her role or connection to others is unclear but true to the rhythm of the play; we roll with it. This disjointedness can be felt in other parts of the production’s story structure. Transitions between scenes are occasionally abrupt, and some thematic threads get lost amid the whirlwind of action. Yet, despite these bumps, Class Dismissed creates a joyful, perplexing celebration of collective imagination and academic absurdity with a bit of rum and dance.
Class Dismissed is set in a lively, spacious classroom-like environment. The set design by Deb O perfectly complements the show’s tone: open, versatile, and inviting constant movement. And there is tons of movement in this performance. The lively music, including the joyful inclusion of Spanish-language songs like reggaeton hits (Bad Bunny!), further amplifies the show’s festive, anything-can-happen vibe. Anything can indeed happen since the production invites the audience to partake in their world where chalkboard scribbles and reggaeton dance breaks coexist with philosophical rants and poetic musings. Audience members are encouraged to engage and participate, and they sure do! They move furniture, swap books, play catch, and even sip wine or rum alongside the cast.
The ensemble, led by Pepper Binkley, Yaraní del Valle Piñero, Daniel Irizarry, and Rhys Tivey, delivers vibrant performances that keep the atmosphere playful and unpredictable. Their energy and camaraderie shine brightest during moments of improvised interaction, making the experience feel personal and communal.
If you’re open to getting a little messy, laughing through confusion, and dancing your way through philosophy, Class Dismissed will offer an experience like no other.
Text by Robert Lyons
Directed by Daniel Irizarry
Composer: Rhys Tivey
Photos: Suzanne Fiore
Class Dismissed runs to May 4 at La Mama. Performances are Thursdays – Saturdays at 7pm and Sundays at 2pm. For more info and to purchase tickets visit https://www.lamama.org/class-dismissed.