Steven Tomlinson has found the perfect metaphor for our divided nation: vintage Fiestaware. In American Fiesta, his entertaining solo show at the Vineyard Theatre, the writer/performer chronicles his obsessive search for the classic ceramic dinnerware while simultaneously discussing the political divide between Red States and Blue States and the domestic crisis brewing in his own family when he announces his intention to marry his same-sex partner.

Tomlinson has an amiable persona but proves to be an uneven performer. While the writing is full of wit and humor, not all of his jokes land. It takes him awhile to establish a rapport with his audience, and certain moments play awkwardly, even[...]