D3linquentz

Writer-performer Stefany Northcutt definitely has a story to tell. We've all heard the one about the gorgeous and talented actor finding her voice despite her unsupportive parents/dismissive partner/narrow-minded upbringing. Some of us have heard it far too many times, and most of the time it turns out to be the story of an actor looking for a vehicle in a town where there are too few vehicles for women. Thankfully, Northcutt's story moves beyond this. But though her very personal tale certainly has the possibility of theatrical legs, it's stopped short in the telling.

Directed by George C. Stiehl, the production begins at a party, with lights and techno music—some nights it's hosted by a guest DJ—and we see fleeting glimpses of the whacked-out, giggling teen we soon learn is Stefany on an acid trip. Stefany finding her way home after a long absence. Stefany learning her mother found and read her journals detailing her party-girl-living-with-bikers lifestyle. Stefany being hoodwinked by her caring family and put into a group home. Although we follow her path, it's laid out in a rather awkward presentation that almost doesn't include us, so by the time we arrive at the home we, on the outside watching, are not sure of our role. When we meet the other denizens of this "transitional therapeutic community"—all portrayed by Northcutt—we need some sort of fixed perspective to guide us. If we knew we were seeing these broken teens and combative counselors through the eyes of a scared little privileged white girl, we'd have more of a stake in the final destination.

The problems in the construction of the piece don't stop us from appreciating the knockout Northcutt's often wonderful characterizations. Stiehl's choices insofar as staging help us focus at some points but seem labored and confusing at others. So in the end, we hear the voice of this appealing artist, but her message isn't yet crafted for an audience.

Presented by and at Write Act Repertory Theatre, 6128 Yucca St., Hollywood. Sept. 10-Oct. 2. Thu.-Sat., 7:30 p.m. (Also Sun., 4 p.m., Sept. 18 & Oct. 2.) (310) 461-5125. www.d3linquentz.com.