Arena’s ‘Exclusion’ is a piece of art about art
‘Exclusion’Through June 25 Arena Stage1101 Sixth St., S.W.$56-95Arenastage.org When Asian-American historian Katie’s best-selling book about the racist Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882 is optioned for a mini-series by a Hollywood mogul, she couldn’t happier.
However, artistic and commercial visions clash and things go awry. This is the premise of Ken Lin’s new comedy “Exclusion” now at Arena Stage.
Katie is played by Karoline, the mononymously named New York-based actor who brings intelligence and energy to every role they tackle. “I’m similar to Katie — honest to a fault, optimistic, both strong and naïve,” says Karoline, 28. “For me, the challenge is watching Katie choose yes or no at every turn.
Should she address what’s coming at her with truth or not? Or hide what she’s thinking? My struggle in life has been similar.
