Landscape of the Body

This was the show where I really felt like I was really part of the theatre community. As Kevin and I are in the lobby waiting for the doors to open to the theatre, in walks Mr. Ben Brantley (of the NYT) himself. I'm not sure why, but I was a little star-struck, but for only half of a second. It's just ironic to think that most powerful theatre critic in the world is sitting in the same audience as me, and we're both playing roles in the success of the show (granted his is much more vital)...

Well - onto the show. I'd heard rumors of it not being very entertaining, a bit stagnant, and most of all - just plain long. Well, long it was, but I can't tell you that I was ever bored. Some of the scenes were a tad bit extended - but shave 5 minutes off here and there, you have a nice story and a nice show to stage.

Plot summary - A series of flashbacks and flashforwards tell the story of two sisters - Betty and Rosalie. The plot weaves as it tells us the story of the murder of Betty's teenage son but also takes a look at Betty's live previous to ending up in NYC on Christopher Street. Sherie Rene Scott plays Rosalie, Betty's sister, who for most of the story is narrating from the afterlife. This woman is hilarious. I saw her in Dirty Rotten Scoundrels last season, and she was entertaining - but here I couldn't stop laughing, just from the smallest flicks of her hand to a slight facial expression. I'm not sure if I should attribute that to the director or to her, but either way it's a classic way to play the role. Lili Taylor is powerful as Betty - especially at the beginning of the play. I was a little unimpressed by the turns in her performance toward the end, especially in the last scene - but other than that, a good role for her. The supporting characters, especially Betty's southern and detective wanna-be lovers, are a great addition to the show.

Set design is simple and the lighting is really effective in putting forth a sense of film noir. Does anyone else notice lighting? Well I do - as I find it really helps (or hurts) certain if not all aspects of a show. The musicians also hold their own as they are wheeled out onto stage whenever they are needed.

In conclusion it's a nice solid play with some interesting themes. I would cut a little time off of it's 2 1/2 hour length - but really a nice effort.