The Oregonian
January 22, 2007
by Richard Wattenberg

A Sad, Joyous "Yellow Boat"

Insight Out Theatre Collective's production of David Saar's "The Yellow Boat" is a moving exploration of the horrors of illness from the perspective of a child. There is much sadness here, but also joy. Saar's play tells how his son Benjamin, a hemophiliac who contracted HIV and then AIDS through a transfusion, finally transformed pain into love by means of art.

Under Andrés Alcalá's sensitive direction and with energetic choreography by Do Jump!'s Robin Lane, the play sweeps us into the vibrant world of Benjamin's imagination. In the role of the young protagonist, the adult Matt Caffoni captures the naive wonder of childhood: Nothing's forced about his presentation of an 8-year-old. The rest of the talented performers work wonderfully well as ensemble and as individuals bringing to life the adults and children who touched Benjamin.

The play's first half, tracing Benjamin's adaptation to life with hemophilia, is fast-paced and fun. We join Benjamin and his friends as they explore a magical realm of fantasy and adventure. But the shadow of HIV and then AIDS soon darkens this sunny picture. The most affecting scenes show us how fear of AIDS isolates the boy.

After moving into a sterile hospital environment, Benjamin drifts into a deep depression. As his energy flags, it is left to others -- his parents and Joy, the hospital employee who tends to his spirit -- to tell the story. The play's action slows down -- not inappropriately given the tragic circumstances, but perhaps more than necessary. Still, the love of those about him gives Benjamin courage. Even as droning, beeping life-supporting machinery crowds the space around his bed, his rainbow-hued visions carry the play to a stirring climax.