'Horse'-Play: A Double Entendre

By Gabrielle Johnsen

When it comes to romance, it's common to have a "type": a preference for the ideal height, body composition, sense of humor, or career path in a potential significant other. Such desires are often harmless, though they may sometimes err on the unusual side. Some people seek out traits that are specific, singular – or, as some might say, perverted. In this vein, For Want of a Horse, the latest world premiere production at the Echo Theatre, provokes thought as it provides a tender examination of one man's love affair…with his horse.

Encouraged by his wife, Bonnie (Jenny Soo), Calvin (Joey Stromberg) acquires the mare Q-Tip (Griffin Kelly) for sensual pursuits beyond the outdoorsy joys of equestrianism. Bonnie supports her husband, although she is rocked by his unorthodox sexual proclivities. To prevent Calvin from sinking deeper into his depression, Bonnie agrees to open their marriage so that her husband can seek intimacy with the animal of his wildest fantasies.

Olivia Dufault's daring script leans into the uncomfortable humor prompted by its premise. Comedic relief arrives in the form of Calvin's friend PJ (Steven Culp), who can relate to Calvin on the front of untraditional preferences (he refers to his dog as his "lover"). Having been around the block a few times more than his younger counterpart, PJ's plum bravado neatly tempers Calvin's first-timer anxieties.

Steven Culp and Joey Stromberg in For Want of a Horse. Photo by Cooper Bates.

Still, PJ is not without principle. He and Calvin claim "zoophilia," rather than "bestiality." To them, there is a marked difference. They claim true love for their animals, standing staunchly against abuse. When bonding over a couple beers, Calvin and PJ read as everyday, regular men trying to navigate their taboo desires with grace and gentility. But is such a feat possible?

As Bonnie begins to grow jealous of Q-Tip, she brings to Calvin's attention the fact that the horse cannot consent to their activities. She's right – whenever Q-Tip speaks to the audience, it becomes immediately apparent that the horse has no clear comprehension of the dynamic that has formed around her.

As Q-Tip, Griffin Kelly communicates a horse-like quality with gangly grace, craning her neck and pawing long limbs. Her Q-Tip is gentle-hearted and simple. She is concerned exclusively with horse business, which consists mostly of eating apples and galloping around. She is not averse to Calvin's advances, but she is far from a willing, active participant in the sexual partnership he seeks.

For Want of a Horse is not for everyone. The basic premise is as good a litmus test as any: some prospective audience members will be disgusted out of hand by the premise of a man who wishes to have relations with his horse, whereas others will be intrigued. To theatregoers who find themselves in the latter camp, For Want of a Horse provides a challenging, engaging, and multifaceted lens pointed at the intersection of desire, shame, and freedom.

For Want of a Horse runs through May 25 at Atwater Village Theatre, 3269 Casitas Ave in Los Angeles. Performances are Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 pm, Sundays at 4:00 pm, and Mondays at 8:00 pm. Tickets range from $15 to $42.75 and can be purchased here.