Theater Review: 'MASKS' at J.E.T. Studios

Friendship can often get you through difficult times and give your life purpose.

Nowhere is that more evident than in the Masks Productions and J.E.T. Productions-West staging of Masks, which has only two more shows on Feb. 7 and Feb. 21 before running on the last Tuesday of the month beginning in March.

, which of last year in the NoHo Arts District, continues to put on plays such as this and that shed light on unique topics and strong characters.

Judith E, owner and founder of J.E.T. Studios, sold the last February and opened J.E.T. last July to get more involved in North Hollywood and give creative people a place to use their creativity.

J.E.T. is a multi-faceted complex consisting of three studios, a TV/Camera Room and a 60-seat raked theatre.

Taking place in the theatre, Masks tells the chronological story of two men growing-up in the juvenile justice system and struggling to make it to manhood.

It is a gritty and realistic view of today’s youth living in a society that cares little about them and they care little about.

Masks also underscores the lack of good parenting affecting many children and young people.

In its right-on depiction of two men attempting to follow their dreams and aspirations, it allows us the audience a chance to see ourselves in the characters on-going fluctuation between being true to the good in themselves and giving in to the bad.

The writing, by Terryl Daluz and and Mann Alfonso, is crisp and authentic though it could use more sophistication. It lets us into the minds of the two young men without obstacles or obstruction.

The direction, by Daluz and Alfonso, is highly imaginative and energetic, and in one scene, where the two meet each other for the first time, hits home more deeply and powerfully than any other in the play.

Daluz (Jason) is the lynchpin of the production. His anger is genuine as is his sensitivity and fear.  Daluz is Jason.  He does not stray from the intentions or goals of his character.

Alfonso (T.G.) gives a performance not soon to be forgotten. His comedic chops are rivaled only by his unflappable and kind nature. It is time this actor gets the attention his talents deserve.

Both Daluz and Alfonso have worked as counselors with group home kids for over a decade.

All in all, Masks sees the world and the young people in it through rife and transparent glasses that do not back off or flinch.

In so doing, they give the Los Angeles theatre community a gift lacking in pretention or self-absorption.

Feb. 7th at 7:30 p.m., & Feb. 21 at 7:30 p.m.

Beginning March 2012 show will continue to run the last Tuesday of the month

J.E.T. Studios, 5126 Lankershim Blvd., North Hollywood, CA 91601

General Admission: $20; Seniors/Students: $15; Groups 10+: $12

Tickets: (818) 358-3453