HOLLYWOOD, CA -Everyman for Himself is a visually appealing work of art. Conceived, choreographed, and directed by Ameenah Kaplan, who performed in the original American cast of STOMP, Everyman for Himself fuses dance, acrobatics, and capoeira with theater to tell the tale of a young man on a journey of self-discovery in a dog eat dog world. It's a coming-of-age journey recounted with a daring blend of spectacle and storytelling to the beat of a dynamic percussive score.

Michael Gallagher gives an audience pleasing performance as The Everyman. His physical comedy is a throwback to the era of silent films and succeeds in drawing sympathy during his many states of confusion.

The main reason of see this production is, by far, the dance. With addition choreography by Hassan Christopher, a nice bow belongs to the cast of dancers. Akume, Michael Bullard, Michael Gallagher, Tumaini Finley, Phillipos Haile, Jacob 'Kujo' Lyons, Vanessa Vander Pluym, Dan Waskom, and Dreya Weber prove to a force to be reckoned with.

Vander Pluym's inventive dance with Yoga Ball will most certainly have audience members secretly trying something new at home. Another favorite was the ensemble creation of a Cat's Cradle. There is also much to be said about Gallagher's first entrance onto the stage - simple, very effective, and highly entertaining.

Another nod goes to drummers, Emmanuel 'Wolf' Frausto and Blair Shotts, who start the production while the audience is outside waiting to enter the theater. They properly give the audience a sampling of what is instore.

In a town that is ripe with talent and inspiration, Everyman for Himself is a must see for anyone with an appreciation for dance. This show is pure heart and deserves to be seen. - Adrian Rennie