His partner in all this is Louis Jacobs as the aforementioned Freda. Jacobs give an extraordinary performance as this beaten down, cynical transvestite who arrives at Early's door after being beaten within an inch of his life. To watch him open up to the possibility of a real relationship with Early is something to behold. There isn’t a false moment between them and they handle the quick emotional changes with great ease.
They are nicely supported by the rest of the cast. In addition to Cheryl Jacobs (alternating in the role with Mimi Drew), there is the sister’s husband, played with patient restraint by Don Cesario (David Franco alternates), and a humorous turn by Jeremy Glazer as the nephew. Max Williams is also frighteningly good as Freda’s abusive boyfriend Larry. All these fine performances are drawn out by the brilliant direction of David Fofi, who is now one of my favorite Los Angeles directors. At the Lillian Theatre through Jan. 13 2008.
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