Sue's News

Pared Down, and Just Right

October 29th, 2009

Last night we went to see “Overnight” and the other short plays that are a part of Estro Encores, an encore of plays featured in the Estrogenius Festival.

As a playwright, I tend to write prop heavy pieces… it’s just part of my style and how I populate my worlds, with people and things.

Last night’s show was as simple as can be: Three chair, a table with a table cloth, a remote control (and lighting/sound cues to suggest a television set), two glasses, and a bottle of wine.

In addition to Natalie Bates’ restraint with props/sets, she managed to keep a level of restraint in the writing, keeping the play from getting too sentimental or weepy.

Two women, one in the throws of grief for her deceased husband, and her best friend (who feels guilty for living a “normal” life) navigate having a “normal” conversation with two eight-hundred pound gorillas in the room, loss and guilt.

In addition to the pared down set and simple premise, the direction by Andi Cohen was uncomplicated, and at times elegant. Both actresses were given the room to play physically in the small space, and emotionally to create a charged tension at crucial points.

Ann Rickoff (playing the widowed Nancy) was especially convincing as someone who is free-falling into the depths of loneliness faster than she can figure a way to get out.

Elizabeth Claire Taylor’s performance as Joyce was sometimes uneven, but overall strong, as a friend trying to do right by her friend, while still being true to herself.

I wasn’t a fan of the ending, but I understand what Bates was going for.

If you’re in the west village and you want to take in an interesting evening of short plays, stop by this week and take in Estro Encores.

Enjoy!

–Sue

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