By AJ Jaffari

What happens when a simple train ride becomes something far more revealing? The Coast Starlight at The Stage transforms an ordinary journey into something quietly introspective, where connection, curiosity, and vulnerability take center stage. Keith Bunin’s play doesn’t rely on spectacle—instead, it leans into stillness, allowing its characters the space to exist, to question, and to reveal themselves in unexpected ways.

Set aboard an Amtrak train traveling along California’s coast, the story brings together a group of individuals whose lives briefly intersect, each carrying their own thoughts, histories, and emotional baggage. The Stage embraces the intimacy of the piece, crafting a production that feels both grounded and contemplative. It’s a show that invites you to listen closely—not just to the dialogue, but to the silences in between.

Overall, I found myself drawn into the experience, even if I wasn’t always sure where the story was heading. There was a sense of longing that lingered throughout, almost as if I was searching for something alongside the characters. I admired each of them for what they brought to the table, and while the narrative doesn’t offer easy answers, it creates a space for reflection that felt meaningful in its own way.

Among the cast, Charlotte Boyce Munson (Liz) stood out as a particular favorite. Having seen her previously in Into the Woods at Santa Cruz Shakespeare, I already knew the level of talent she brings, and she absolutely delivered here as well. There’s a grounded quality to her performance that makes her incredibly easy to watch and connect with. From the moment she arrived on stage, I was locked in.

Storm White (Jane) was another standout for me. I’ve had the pleasure of seeing her in a few productions now, and I continue to be impressed by her work. She brings a natural presence to the stage that feels both effortless and intentional, and it’s clear she’s a performer with a great deal of depth.

From a production standpoint, Erik Scanlon’s video design was honestly mind-blowingly good. It added a visual dimension to the storytelling that felt both innovative and immersive without ever overwhelming the piece. Maurice Vercouture’s lighting design also stood out, particularly in its subtlety and emotional impact. There was a moment toward the end—featuring small star-like lights integrated into the performers’ costumes—that I found especially striking and memorable.

Director Rebecca Haley Clark approached the material with clear intention, allowing the story to unfold naturally while maintaining a strong sense of focus. I especially appreciated the choreography of the train seating—it was simple, yet thoughtfully executed, and helped ground the physical world of the play in a way that felt both creative and purposeful.

The Coast Starlight may not hand you all the answers, but it offers something just as valuable: a chance to sit with uncertainty, to observe, and to feel. And sometimes, that’s exactly the kind of journey worth taking.

The Coast Starlight runs through April 26 and tickets are available here.