Communion

Developmental Production at the cell theatre, NYC Sept 22 - Oct 8, 2023

“LaBanca’s performance in his own play defies superlatives. If an impromptu “Somebody’s knocking at your door” choir practice with the audience is any indication, his church choir and we, the audience, would follow Matthew anywhere. There is a Maltese saying along the lines of “His heart is so big, he smiles with his eyes.” It loses something in the translation, but it is indicative of someone who has so much of his heart to share, the weight of something as simple as a smile is often borne by the eyes. In his earnestness there is a faint tearing up. Think of those you know that will cry when they are happy, as well as sad. His caring for others and his devotion are so sincere, it makes it all the more painful when he is expected to endure a tribunal of the Catholic Diocese.”

-Tony Marinelli, TheatreScene.net 10/6/23

Gripping. Provocative. Communion is guaranteed to foster many post-show discussions about religion, sexuality, identity, tradition, prejudice, and much more.  A VERY personal piece for Matthew LaBanca, Communion has MANY moments of pure joy and humor, which makes the central injustice of the story even more dramatic.  It’s outright challenging to see his wide, smiling eyes swell with tears in the second half of the show.  It’s not easy to carry an entire performance piece all by yourself– particularly one which is so intensely personal.  The intensely charismatic LaBanca meets that challenge.  This Communion is well worth receiving! 

-Jed Ryan, LavendarAfterDark.com 9/29/23