Different Holes in ‘Bridge’ and ‘Moon’

“The Bridge” and “Craters on the Moon”--original one-acts in Oasis Theatre Ensemble’s Grand Opening Festival, the group’s first outing in its splendidly refurbished Venice facility--are slight offerings ardently rendered by an earnest but uneven young company.

“The Bridge,” written by James Lee Hymes and directed by Justin A. Yoffe, concerns the interaction between two suicidal people, apparent strangers, who meet by chance atop the bridge from which both are planning their fatal plunge. Despite the piece’s stale premise and predictable denouement, Hymes interjects a fair degree of humor into his play, and he and Jacqueline Miller (substituting for regular cast member Catalina Larranga) deliver heartfelt performances.

“Craters” doesn’t fare so well. Although certainly heartfelt, the play, written and directed by Yoffe, is a humorless, painfully sincere treatment of marital violence featuring acting ranging from competent to amateurish. During a heated argument, Eric (John Rizzi) hits his wife, Andrea (Mary Carrig). The play considers the aftermath of the violence, with Eric and Andrea’s marriage hanging in the balance.

Occasionally, Yoffe’s dialogue achieves a certain rough poetic quality. More often, though, it bristles with psychobabble and shallow sentimentality. Oasis is dedicated to producing new works by its company members--but if this evening is any indication, the company might be better off sticking with the classics.

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* “The Bridge” and “Craters on the Moon,” Electric Lodge, 1416 Electric Ave., Venice. Fridays, 8 p.m. Ends Aug. 13. $10. (310) 823-1286. Running time: 1 hour, 55 minutes.