As malls start to die out, many won’t know what the mall food court meant to people, but growing up in the mall culture of the ’80s and ’90s, the food court was the place to be, be seen and socialize.
James (Matthew Gennell), a copy writer, and Gerald (Matthew Lincoln-Bugg), an entertainment attorney, are a gay couple who seem to be working through James’ diagnosis and limited mobility with Parkinson’s.
Gerald is an overprotective busybody, but still a loving husband to James. As these two stop at the food court, James meets Rachel (Taylor Jewell), an energetic and brassy eco-advocate who doesn’t seem to let her MS diagnosis slow her down as she zooms into James’ life in her wheelchair, much to the disdain of Gerald.
The two bond over their diagnosis, comparing notes and Rachel guides James as to what expect, especially in his relationship with Gerald.
The notion of “parking” your loved one who isn’t nearly as mobile was surprising and new to me. Much like the unexpected bonds you often see in stories like these, Rachel brings so much joy in the short time she meets James and she does so with a lot of gusto.
As the story progressed, you really got to see their connection, all the while Rachel points out the do’s and don’ts of the food court, which she insinuates James will be spending more time at while he’s parked by Gerald. Rachel’s become a pro and seems to know all the ins and outs of the food court and even manages to have an enemy in the local “mall cop” Donnie (Michael Brown), who like Rachel makes great use of his wheels throughout the show.
I had hoped this show would touch more on the subject of people with disabilities within the LGBTQ community, but it didn’t go in that direction. It did show the necessity of finding your tribe and although the ending seemed to get a little discombobulated moving past the relationship and focusing more on capitalism, this show still had very endearing moments and is worth a watch.
“Food Court” plays in the Brown Venue through May 29. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit OrlandoFringe.org.
