Seven Women vs. The Dumbass President of the United States: The Mill Theatre’s Production of “POTUS”

The Mill Theatre’s latest production of “POTUS: Or, Behind Every Great Dumbass Are Seven Women Trying to Keep Him Alive,” directed by Andrew Behling, is an aptly titled play that shows the snowball effect that is often our political atmosphere. Don’t miss the chance to see these seven talented actors tackle the reality that the “dumbass POTUS” can’t lead without them, running again May 1-4.

Written in 2022 by Selina Fillinger, “POTUS: Or Behind Every Dumbass Are Seven Women Trying to Keep Him Alive,” is a political mockery that follows the seven women who work closest to the President of the United States (POTUS) as they attempt to prevent him from creating worldwide destruction.

The tone is set from the very first line of the play – “Cunt.” Viewers feel as though they are the audience of “Saturday Night Live” with the level of comedy and explicit behavior exhibited on stage. “POTUS” undoubtedly will have viewers laughing at the embarrassing events and nodding in agreement with the satiric acknowledgement of patriarchy in workplaces.

The seven brilliant women holding the White House together were beautifully cast. Jessica Sanderson played a believable chief of staff, Harriet, as she tried to cover all the cracks that unfold behind the scenes of politics. Christine Rowe played Jean, the powerful press Secretary whose only weak spot is her ex-lover and the president’s sister, Bernadette, whom Alyssa DiVarco embodied flawlessly.

The first lady, Margaret, played by Micaiah Brown, brilliantly portrays an overqualified and overlooked woman in the workforce. Treasure Indiamoawei brings to life Chris, a journalist determined to advance her career while simultaneously being a single mom. Chris captures the struggles of being a working mother in a relentless industry.

A wide cast of women is represented within the play through characters such as Stephanie, played by Allie Cook, who is more timid and is learning how to thrive in an industry so set against her. Reagan Bobich, playing Dusty, brought a surprising voice of reason and assertiveness to the women behind the POTUS. She was often overlooked because of the stereotypes placed on her, but ultimately, she grounded the group and reminded them of their worth.

The Mill Theater’s production of “POTUS” was executed beautifully with a meticulously crafted stage that enhanced the chaotic energy of the play, while the lighting and sound design amplified the comedy and tension, creating a fully immersive experience.

Throughout the play, there are subtle references to the complexities of race, identity, and the patriarchy. The symbolism and messages related to these themes are clear but still somewhat obscured by the comedic elements.

While the issues surrounding the patriarchy and politics are critiqued, they are never directly confronted, as the President of the United States is not portrayed on stage. This absence felt somewhat like a letdown due to the lack of a direct confrontation with the issue.

After experiencing the turmoil faced by the seven women behind the POTUS, audience members can feel the feminine power radiating, leaving only one acceptable response: cue up the “Bitch Beats” playlist.