Reno Stage Scene; ‘Off Peak’ at Restless Artists Theatre Company

Regrets from the past come to light as a commuter train is stuck between the destinations to come and the stations long past in “Off Peak.”

~Review and Photos by Dana Nöllsch~

The Story of Off Peak

Sarita, a middle-aged teacher, is making her usual commute on the northbound train, happily minding her own business, when a voice from her past breaks the silence. The voice belongs to a long-lost lover, Martin, who has a surprising agenda. This is the start of an eventful train ride for the both of them.

Martin wants to make amends for being a lousy boyfriend almost 20 years ago. This is quite a surprise to Sarita as she has put that chapter of her life behind her long ago. But here she is on a train with Martin, trying to understand his motivations and coming to grips with her own emotions.

There are many more twists and turns in the story as the audience is given details of how these two find themselves in a train car heading nowhere. The writing is sharp and witty, lending itself to a story many can relate to.

About the Performances

Off Peak is one of those plays that is certainly an actor’s delight. The chemistry between Juli Fair, who plays Sarita, and Kirk Gardner, who plays Martin, is the magic that brings beauty to the story. These two actors take the audience on a journey with passionate portrayals of regret and hope while adding a bit of humor as well.

What about the Set

The set is a train car with only two occupants. The only other sign of life is the occasional garbled voice of the conductor giving updates on the journey’s progress. Restless Artists Theatre has done an excellent job creating the stage for the story of Off Peak.

Bottom Line

Off Peak is one of those theatrical dramas that will have you reminiscing about your own past and realizing that the past should stay in the past.

Off Peak

By Brenda Withers

Directed by Rachel Douglass

Assistant Director, David Zybert 

Cast

Juli Fair, as Sarita.

Kirk Gardner, as Martin.

Performance Dates

November 3-13

Restless Artists Theatre Company

295 20th Street, Sparks

​775 525-3074

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