LOVE LETTERS
Written by: A. R. Gurney
Directed by: Jerry Durkin
Theatrical Review by: Paul Adam Smeltz
The Shawnee Playhouse* in Shawnee on the Delaware, PA presented The Worthington Players production of “Love Letters” by A. R. Gurney. For those who celebrate the St. Valentine’s Season, the play “Love Letters” can be expected to be found among the flowers, chocolates, and the aim of Cupid’s arrow. Many theatrical companies present “Love Letters” as their annual contribution to the season as an entertainingly unique tribute to it.
The structure of the play has a potentially boring premise to it. It consists of two people sitting in front of an audience reading from a script comprising of letters their character have written to each other. Fortunately, this potential for boredom is never realized as the audience becomes involved with the characters and their lives they share even when they’re apart. “Love Letters” offers an opportunity to explore the range of emotions the actors present to us not only in the parts they play, but also in our own relationships with those whom we hold dear to our hearts.
This production utilizes the talents of a different set of actors in each of its performance. The evening which I attended featured Scotty McIntosh as Andrew Ladd and Pittershawn Palmer* as Melissa Gardner. Other actors portraying the part of Andrew Ladd during the course of the production are Jerry Durkin (who also served as Director), Steve Brown, Michael Wetmore*, Marty Courtney*, Rob Howell, and Jon Kirkwood. Other actresses portraying the part of Melissa Gardner during the course of the production are Betsy Jackson*, Nance Brown, Michelle Kane, Teri Miles, Pat VanVarick, and Barbara Calchera.
While it’s difficult to determine the quality of the yet unseen productions featuring other cast members, the performance of Scotty McIntosh and Pittershawn Palmer* in their roles may serve as an indication of the overall production. Their performance drew the audience into the lives of their character, not only with the lines they spoke and the reflections they placed on then, but with the reflections each actor gave to the letters they received which the other actor was reading them aloud.
This silent act of reading and reacting to what was read added a dimension to the production by allowing the audience to see what effect the letters really had on their readers. Yet, it not only served to deepen our relationship with the characters, but it also deepen our relationships with our hearts as they began to respond to what they heard. Therefore, the actors held a mirror to our often unseen souls as we reflected on what we discovered there.
“Love Letters” by A. R. Gurney was Directed by Jerry Durkin and Sara Ferguson served as Assistant Director. The Production was Stage Managed by Teresa Yue Shen while the lighting design was created by Kayla Goble. Lillian Ramirez Gonzalez*, Mary Horn, and Kasey Mesko served as a members of the box office staff. The Executive Director of The Shawnee Playhouse* is Midge McClosky* while the producers are Ginny and Charlie Kirkwood.
This production of “Love Letters” by A. R. Gurney will continue its run at The Shawnee Playhouse* in Shawnee on the Delaware, PA until February 17th and is recommended for those who would like to follow Shakespeare’s suggestion of “Go to Thy Bosom, knock there, and ask your heart what it dost know.” The next Shawnee Playhouse* in Shawnee on the Delaware, PA presentation will be The Worthington Players production of “Prelude To A Kiss” will be March 7th - 16th. Those who enjoy the Passionate Art Lover level of membership in The Forwardian Arts Society are offered a $2.00 discount off the admission fee. Please contact The Shawnee Playhouse* at 570-421-5093 for more information and to reserve your ticket.
(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.
Please Note: There were no photography allowed during the production.
Sunday, February 10, 2008
Saturday, February 09, 2008
Doo Wop for the Heart
The Sherman Theatre* (www.shermantheatre.com) in Stroudsburg, PA opened the romantic souls of those who will celebrate the upcoming St. Valentine’s Day with their presentation of a Doo Wop Show featuring The Duprees and Shirley Alston Reeves on Friday February 8th. The evening brought back memories to many while inspiring new comers to the music to join in the appreciation of this distinctive style of great music. Richard Berkowitz*, Cheryl Yost*, Theresa Woehrel*, and Bill Kelly* (all of the Sherman) were there along with Maria Gerena*, Sharon Swavely*, Arline M. Smeltz* and Gary Lambert*. The next show at The Sherman Theatre* will be The Fine Arts and Discovery Series* presentation of The Kulu Mele African Dance Ensemble on Sunday February 10th. Please contact at The Sherman Theatre* at 570-420-2808 for more information. You’ll find numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society Doo Wop for the Heart Gallery at myspace.com/forwardian_arts.
(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.
(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.
Thursday, February 07, 2008
The Poetry Reading That Almost Wasn’t
The East Stroudsburg University* (www.esu.edu) in East Stroudsburg, PA almost held a Poetry to the People event featuring poets followed by an Open Reading on Thursday February 7th. However, it was canceled without notice. Luckily, others arrived to enjoy the event without receiving the notice that wasn’t sent out. The evening led to an improvising exploration of poetry, music, and cerebral discussions which entranced, enchanted, and enhanced those few who participated. These kindred souls were Pittershawn Palmer*, John, and I. You’ll find numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society The Poetry Reading That Almost Wasn’t Gallery at myspace.com/forwardian_arts.
(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.
(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.
Theatrical Review: One Acts 2008
ONE ACTS 2008
Directed by: The Students of ESU*
Theatrical Review by: Paul Adam Smeltz
The East Stroudsburg University (ESU)* Theatre Department in East Stroudsburg, PA presented The Stage II* production of “One Acts 2008” which consisted of three One Act Plays directed by three students making their directorial debut. Stage II is the university’s student organization which supports and encourages participation in the Theatre Department’s productions as well as creating opportunities for students to be involved in all aspects of the theatrical arts. The “One Acts 2008” is a clear example of their endeavors.
The first play presented was entitled, “Laundry and Bourbon” written by James McLure and directed by Kendra Getz. This was a slice of life piece focusing on a relationship between two women as they share their thoughts, opinions, and attitudes on the incidents in their daily lives. The performances by Elanor Koenig* (who portrayed Hattie) and Samantha Avola* (who portrayed Elizabeth) were quite well done as their interpretations of their characters were very believable.
However, there were flaws in the play’s pacing which often took away the power behind some of the lines that were spoken and sometimes brought the action of the piece to a dead stop. These flaws might have been avoided and even repaired by a more experienced directors, but it is important to remember this was Ms. Kendra’s first attempt at directing and it’s even more important to point out there were other aspects of the presentation which foretold of what her considerable talents will become as Ms. Kendra become more seasoned in her directorial experiences.
This was evident in some very subtle aspects of the piece which touched upon the relationship of the two main characters. An audience member gained the impression they knew each other for some time and were able to share of themselves very easily because of their history together. This is often brought out by the guidance of a very talented director who has an innate sense of what makes good theatre. Also, the pacing of the play did improve with an additional character, Amy Lee (well portrayed by Amanda Kalinowski), whose presence served as a seasoning added to a recipe to create a marvelous culinary treat.
The second play presented was entitled, “Death” written by Abolafia and directed by Francesca Garrard. One couldn’t watch this contribution to the evening without being reminded of their favorite episode of “The Twilight Zone” or “Alfred Hitchcock Presents.” The play presumed to take place in purgatory where a man comes to learn of his final destination. Meredith Lubin (who portrayed Delia, the evaluator) and Doug Brehony (who portrayed Jack Martin, the departed) were well cast and dead on (ok a pun) on their interpretation.
This presentation was very well done. The director’s ability to draw the audience into this situation and to maintain a curiosity as to what will occur next showed a great talent. This was enhanced by the impressive talents of the actors who participated in the work. This was made even more evident when a M. Night Shyamalan twist was presented in a way that worked even though it had long ceased doing so for M. Night Shyamalan and his films.
The final play presented was entitled, “The Banker” written by David Dougherty and directed by Ryan Groff. This amusing adventure into physical comedy was a delightful ending to an engaging evening of “One Acts 2008.” The constant pacing of Roger (portrayed by Alex Wirth) established the energies of the entire piece. The enjoyment of the play was enhanced by Brian Foley* (who portrayed John) as he served as a hilarious foil to Roger’s ridiculous seriousness. Another foil of Roger came in the form of Mary (portrayed by Jenell Manzi) who reminds us all if it isn’t one thing, it’s your mother. Angelo Reveilla III* rounded out the piece with his portrayal of Alfred, Dalton, and Kevin which added an extra element of satisfaction with his performance.
Oh, the play is about a theatrical producer (Roger) experiencing difficulties financing a show that’s just about to go on. This ensues to a great many comedic occurrences heightened by the producer’s level of stress. It is hoped, by this reviewer, none of the students involved in “One Acts 2008” will ever experience such difficulties in their future theatrical endeavors. But, if they do, I hope they’ll handle them with less stress or, at least, have an audience around who’ll appreciate the humor.
This production of “One Acts 2008” will continue its run at The ESU* Fine and Performing Arts Building in East Stroudsburg, PA until February 10th and is recommended for those who would like to glimpse into the future inhabited by talented directors while enjoying a great evening of theatre. The next East Stroudsburg University (ESU)* Theatre Department in East Stroudsburg, PA production will be “Tartuffe” by Moliere April 22nd - 27th. Please contact The East Stroudsburg University (ESU)* Theatre Department at 570-422-3483 for more information and to reserve your ticket.
Please Note: No pictures were allowed to be taken during the performance.
(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.
Directed by: The Students of ESU*
Theatrical Review by: Paul Adam Smeltz
The East Stroudsburg University (ESU)* Theatre Department in East Stroudsburg, PA presented The Stage II* production of “One Acts 2008” which consisted of three One Act Plays directed by three students making their directorial debut. Stage II is the university’s student organization which supports and encourages participation in the Theatre Department’s productions as well as creating opportunities for students to be involved in all aspects of the theatrical arts. The “One Acts 2008” is a clear example of their endeavors.
The first play presented was entitled, “Laundry and Bourbon” written by James McLure and directed by Kendra Getz. This was a slice of life piece focusing on a relationship between two women as they share their thoughts, opinions, and attitudes on the incidents in their daily lives. The performances by Elanor Koenig* (who portrayed Hattie) and Samantha Avola* (who portrayed Elizabeth) were quite well done as their interpretations of their characters were very believable.
However, there were flaws in the play’s pacing which often took away the power behind some of the lines that were spoken and sometimes brought the action of the piece to a dead stop. These flaws might have been avoided and even repaired by a more experienced directors, but it is important to remember this was Ms. Kendra’s first attempt at directing and it’s even more important to point out there were other aspects of the presentation which foretold of what her considerable talents will become as Ms. Kendra become more seasoned in her directorial experiences.
This was evident in some very subtle aspects of the piece which touched upon the relationship of the two main characters. An audience member gained the impression they knew each other for some time and were able to share of themselves very easily because of their history together. This is often brought out by the guidance of a very talented director who has an innate sense of what makes good theatre. Also, the pacing of the play did improve with an additional character, Amy Lee (well portrayed by Amanda Kalinowski), whose presence served as a seasoning added to a recipe to create a marvelous culinary treat.
The second play presented was entitled, “Death” written by Abolafia and directed by Francesca Garrard. One couldn’t watch this contribution to the evening without being reminded of their favorite episode of “The Twilight Zone” or “Alfred Hitchcock Presents.” The play presumed to take place in purgatory where a man comes to learn of his final destination. Meredith Lubin (who portrayed Delia, the evaluator) and Doug Brehony (who portrayed Jack Martin, the departed) were well cast and dead on (ok a pun) on their interpretation.
This presentation was very well done. The director’s ability to draw the audience into this situation and to maintain a curiosity as to what will occur next showed a great talent. This was enhanced by the impressive talents of the actors who participated in the work. This was made even more evident when a M. Night Shyamalan twist was presented in a way that worked even though it had long ceased doing so for M. Night Shyamalan and his films.
The final play presented was entitled, “The Banker” written by David Dougherty and directed by Ryan Groff. This amusing adventure into physical comedy was a delightful ending to an engaging evening of “One Acts 2008.” The constant pacing of Roger (portrayed by Alex Wirth) established the energies of the entire piece. The enjoyment of the play was enhanced by Brian Foley* (who portrayed John) as he served as a hilarious foil to Roger’s ridiculous seriousness. Another foil of Roger came in the form of Mary (portrayed by Jenell Manzi) who reminds us all if it isn’t one thing, it’s your mother. Angelo Reveilla III* rounded out the piece with his portrayal of Alfred, Dalton, and Kevin which added an extra element of satisfaction with his performance.
Oh, the play is about a theatrical producer (Roger) experiencing difficulties financing a show that’s just about to go on. This ensues to a great many comedic occurrences heightened by the producer’s level of stress. It is hoped, by this reviewer, none of the students involved in “One Acts 2008” will ever experience such difficulties in their future theatrical endeavors. But, if they do, I hope they’ll handle them with less stress or, at least, have an audience around who’ll appreciate the humor.
This production of “One Acts 2008” will continue its run at The ESU* Fine and Performing Arts Building in East Stroudsburg, PA until February 10th and is recommended for those who would like to glimpse into the future inhabited by talented directors while enjoying a great evening of theatre. The next East Stroudsburg University (ESU)* Theatre Department in East Stroudsburg, PA production will be “Tartuffe” by Moliere April 22nd - 27th. Please contact The East Stroudsburg University (ESU)* Theatre Department at 570-422-3483 for more information and to reserve your ticket.
Please Note: No pictures were allowed to be taken during the performance.
(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.
Saturday, February 02, 2008
Artspace Reception
The Artspace Gallery* (www.artspacegallery.net) in Stroudsburg, PA held an Opening Reception for their members exhibition on Saturday February 2nd. The event also served as a welcoming occasion for The Artspace Gallery* New Director Helen Heeren* and Assistant Director Peter Ambush. Greg and Hong Waltzer* along with Jim Hannan*, Will Daskal*, and Arline M. Smeltz* were among those who enjoyed the evening. The exhibitions will continue until the end of February. Please contact The Artspace Gallery* at 570-476-4460 for more information. You’ll find numerous photographs at The Forwardian Arts Society Artspace Reception Gallery at myspace.com/forwardian_arts.
(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.
(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.
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