MELISSA YASEMI: Let Me Go

 The show is called Let me go, it is in English language played in Kuala Lumpur Performing Arts Center from 11-13th of July 2025, which I attended the second night on 12th of July 2025. 

THEATRE ANALYSIS AND ISSUES OF THE DRAMA

1.Acting and Characterization The acting was sincere and packed with emotions, with the main cast showing a clear understanding of their characters and delivering the emotions specifically the main actress. However, there were only 4 performers and one of them performed 5 roles in a 60-minute Theater. Although the acting was good and she delivered, they can use more performers next time to take the small parts. 

2.Direction and Staging The director’s vision was clear, especially emotionally wise in intense scenes, and use of space was thoughtfully planned. Though some transitions between scenes felt rushed with characters becoming someone else over and over as I mentioned. With more clarity in scene changes and maybe using more people on stage, the production could have maintained a stronger rhythm. 

3.Set Design and Props The set design was minimalistic but effective, related to the story without overwhelming it. Some props were cleverly used, however the decoration has room for getting better because seeing plastic chairs on a stage is not that pleasant. Also, they could have used more comfortable chairs for the audience and the room was freezing cold which made focusing hard. Another thing: the actress and actor were moving the sofa and chairs into the backstage, and you could see people from the backstage in the corner of the stage. 

4. Lighting and Sound Lighting was used efficiently to highlight emotional changes and focus on the audience’s attention. However, they could have used more audio effects — it was only one or two beside when they were singing to the beat. 

5. Audience Engagement and Atmosphere - The atmosphere in the Theater was highlighting, everyone involved and laughed and seemed to enjoy the show very much. 

6.Script and Story - The story was about a girl who wanted to become a Hollywood actress and to pursue her dream she wants to go to America. However, her family is holding her back because of fear of her going abroad. The script at first was strong and funny and made everyone laugh. At the end it can be improved, and the reason is it became cliché. '

Conclusion 

The production had its strengths, specifically in lead performances. All in all, it was a good show with good acting, but with the change of small things, it can become better and attract even more audiences.

BASED ON FOUR STEPS OF CRITICISM

1.Description: This 60-minute play told the story of a girl who dreams of becoming a Hollywood actress and struggles with her family’s fear of letting her go abroad. The performance featured four performers, with one actor taking on five roles. The audience was engaged, and the atmosphere was lively. 

2.Analysis: The acting was sincere, and the main cast understood their characters well. The actress who played multiple roles was particularly impressive. Direction was emotionally strong, and the space on stage was used well. However, scene transitions were sometimes rushed, and the lack of additional performers made the role-switching a bit confusing. Set design was minimal but effective, although certain visual elements like plastic chairs reduced the aesthetic quality. 

3.Interpretation: The director’s vision focused on emotional depth and the conflict between ambition and family expectations. The use of minimal cast and quick transitions may have symbolized internal struggle, but it slightly distracted from the clarity of the story. The atmosphere and humor kept the story relatable and accessible. 

4.Evaluation: Despite minor technical issues and some rushed transitions, the performance was overall enjoyable. The acting, particularly the lead roles, carried the story effectively. With slight improvements in casting, staging, and comfort for the audience, the production could become significantly stronger and reach a wider audience.