‘The Roommate’ at The Rep unpacks unlikely bonds and hidden depths with pith and pathos

As part of the resuscitated Steve Woolf Studio Series from The Repertory Theatre St. Lous, “The Roommate” is a two-hander play that earns a well-deserved and enthusiastic round of applause. The assured direction and superb casting by Rebekah Scallet, the confident and compelling performances by Nancy Bell and Kelley Weber and the realistic set design by Robert Mark Morgan earn the accolades for this praiseworthy production.

The just-fine script by Jen Silverman is equal parts funny and emotional with a sharp wit and engaging dialogue. It’s a darkly comedic play that explores themes of reinvention and unexpected friendship. Set in Iowa, the story follows Sharon, a recently divorced woman in her mid-50s, played by Weber, who takes in a roommate, Robyn, played by Bell, to help with expenses. As this odd couple from vastly different backgrounds begin to bond, Sharon discovers that Robyn’s past is filled with secrets and a penchant for criminal activities. The arc of the action, which occasionally strains one’s suspension of disbelief, explores the lengths people will go to change their lives. One of Weber’s finest moments occurs at play’s end, which begins with a convincing wail of anger and loss and ends with her donning of a leather jacket and a sense of the power of reinvention.

Bell delivers a relatable Robyn as a punkish, free-spirited and enigmatic woman who introduces Sharon to a world of unconventional choices and self-discovery. Bell’s visceral performance is a believable catalyst for Sharon’s transformation as well as her own.

Jutting into the Emerson Studio Theatre’s intimate black box is Morgan’s detailed and realistic set that is worthy of a spread in “Country Living” magazine. The set’s details, superbly illuminated by Jayson M. Lawshee, effectively capture the essence of Sharon’s life, with its cozy yet slightly outdated decor. Sound designer Kareem Deanes bathes the production in a well-curated soundtrack.

“The Roommate” is the first of two productions in the Steve Woolf Studio Series – Adventurous Theatre for Adventurous Theatregoers for the 2024/25 season in the Emerson Studio of the Loretto-Hilton Center on the campus of Webster University.

“The Roommate” runs through November 17 at the Emerson Studio Theatre. Visit the website for more information.