A One‑Man Show Turns a Small Town’s Dark Past Into Theatre

The new play “Kenrex” tells the story of Ken Rex McElroy, a violent outlaw who ruled Skidmore, Missouri, and the day he was shot dead in front of dozens of witnesses.
The production opens at the Lucille Lortel Theatre and is performed by Jack Holden, who has already earned an Olivier Award for a London role.

A Singular Performance

Holden is the only actor on stage, and he portrays every person in the story—over thirty characters—including a young prosecutor, a federal agent, and even a bartender who is a composite of several locals. He changes his posture and voice to switch between roles, while the stage remains simple: a dark suit, white shirt, and a set of microphones that add vocal effects.

Sound as Storytelling

The play’s design leans heavily on sound. Giles Thomas creates a detailed audio landscape that makes the audience feel as if they are hearing phone calls and distant gunshots. This sonic approach pulls viewers into the tense atmosphere of 1980s Missouri, rather than presenting a straightforward narrative.

Verdict

Overall, the play invites viewers into a violent noir world but stops short of exploring its broader implications. It is an engaging theatrical experience that tells a true crime story in a unique, if somewhat limited, way.