|
Theater
Review
The
Scheme of Things
NORTH
HOLLYWOOD, CA - The Scheme of Things is a tribute to the
‘old street performer’ and a gift to the individuals who
love the farce found in theater. Originally performed in 1903,
entitled Los Intereses Creados and written by Jacinto Benavente,
winner of the 1922 Nobel Prize for Literature, The Scheme of
Things has been translated and brilliantly directed by Dan
Oliverio.
The story revolves around two con artists who manage to dupe an
entire village into pampering them with wealth and fame. It’s
a story of their friendship and what happens when one of these
men falls in love. This plot point may seem overused and
repetitive, but let it be pointed out, if done correctly, all is
forgiven.
This tight cast is lead by Nicolas Pavlos who plays the crafty
and intelligent Crispin. Grasping the audience with charisma,
Mr. Pavlos can play the puppeteer with his eyes closed. Tom
Mesmer plays sidekick Leander who is told he is better when he
speaks less, however Mesmer excels in the given direction,
adding much comedy. Kathy Bell Denton impresses as Lady Siren,
an elegant woman who hosts a party for the con artists, and
Jennifer Norkin delights as her over worked servant, Colombina.
|
|
Rants
and raves can be positively written for the entire cast, as in the
cases of Wendy Worthington’s gossiping socialite Risella; Debbie
McMahon’s crazed buck toothed pencil writing Secretary; or Teresa
Anne Volgenau’s enchanting love interest Silvia. Alas, only a few
paragraphs are allowed in this review.
Take some time away from the television set and come see what fun
theater can be. What can be learned or felt from this production?
Maybe a person should take action for what they want in this life, and
pursue it will all their might. Or, on a romantic level, simply
receive a validation that love is strongest when one decides to be
honest with himself and those around him.
Produced by the Antrobus Group in association with The Voltaire
Theater, The Scheme of ThingsS can be seen at the El Portal
Center for the Arts, located at 5269 Lankershim Blvd, North Hollywood,
California. Performances are Friday & Saturday at 8pm and Sunday at 5pm
through August 29, 2004. Tickets are $28. For Reservations or more
info, please call 888-972-4363. Official Website can be found at www.schemetheplay.com
- - Adrian Rennie
Printable
view
|
|
Return
to Main Page
Opening
Soon
By
Nicholas Wright
Directed by Elina de Santos
August
13 - September 19, 2004
Pasadena
Playhouse
|
