If there ever was a play for those who tend not to attend non-musicals, this very well could be that play. English playwright Noel Coward's funny tale Private Lives can be enjoyed by seasoned theater-goers as well as those glued to situation comedies on television.
I recall the wonderful Center Stage production in 1996 directed by Irene Lewis. Everyman has chosen Carl Schurr, a member of the Resident Acting Company at the Everyman, to direcct and what a wise choice that was. Schurr does a remarkable job directing this enjoyable production.
Have you every heard applause from an audience for a set? It doesn't happen often but the ovation here was well-deserved thanks to Daniel Ettinger's marvelous sets.
David Burdick once again has designed wonderful costumes.
Corey Ryan Frank did the lovely lighting.
But, as in any play, it's the actor's who must complete the experience.
You will not see a better pair that the incredibly talented Deborah Hazlett as Amanda, and the superb Bruce Randolph Nelson as Elyot. I only wish this production could have been videotaped for the ages.
Also wonderful in their respective roles are Erin Lindsey Krom as Sibyl and Peter Wray as Victor. Sophie Hinderberger milks her small role as maid Louise to the fullest.
As Artistic Director Vince Lancisi points out in the program, you can see Private Lives on Broadway with Kim Kattrell. Trust me, you don't have to travel to New York to see a great production.
Get thee to the Everyman quickly. Thankfully, it's been extended until December 11 by popular demand. I wish it could have been extended more.
Everyman Theatre Presents Winter Concert
ON THE SUNNY SIDE OF THE STREET, A TRIBUTE TO Dorothy Fields will be presented December 21 to January 1, 2012 (no New Year's Eve show). Hear such classics as "The Way You Look Tonight", "I'm in the Mood for Love", "I can't Give you Anythng But Love". Join Musical Director Howard Breitbart and singers in a concert celebrating the famous lyrics of Dorothy Fields.
For tickets, call 410-752-2208 or visit www.everymantheatre.org.
cgshubow@broadwayworld.com
