Within the first minute of Mocktails, you quickly realize two things - One, this show is going to have a lot of layers and will require a performer who is capable of navigating through them- and Two, this performer will be able to do that. 

This is the story of Candace, a woman flying to Mexico for her former friends destination wedding. Candace is played by Sara Mayfield, who also wrote the piece, and expertly dives in and out of her misadventures for the wedding. 

Fueled by the desire to reconnect with a former friend, and a healthy (?) helping of alcohol, Candace sets out to make the most of her time. The journey goes from optimistic to uncomfortable with a deliberate pace that puts you on edge in the best way. 

Sara manages to not only find ways to draw you into the character, but also gives her the chance to showcase many talents. Multiple songs emerge as highlights of the show with a beautifully nostalgic pop punk sound track that she performs with abandon. 

The ideas of this show are explored beautifully and capably by Sara who manages to make a character that can easily be abrasive sympathetic and relatable. You can feel her struggles despite laughing through the piece, and at the end, are eager to see her make the choices that she will make. 

This show is a brilliant combination of comedy, realization and that familiar blonde trope we all know and have experienced. 

PROS: 

• Expertly handled subject matter and acting throughout 
• Great soundtrack and presentation - Vocal talents on full display
• Emotionally heartfelt and dynamic

CONS: 

• Songs can go on a bit too long
• Constant soundscape (A personal pet peeve, but done rather well here)