Theatrical Review: A Life in the Theatre

A LIFE IN THE THEATRE
Written by: David Mamet
Directed by: Chris Centrella*
Theatrical Review by: Paul Adam Smeltz

The Shawnee Playhouse* in Shawnee on the Delaware, PA presented The Worthington Players* production of “A Life in the Theatre” by David Mamet. The play is about an older, experienced actor taking a young, enthusiastic actor under his wings. However, as with many mentoring relationships, the growth of the one being taught begins to diminish the need to be taught and thereby eventually displaces whose desire to help is transformed into a power play by his pompous sense of self importance which is merely a recognition he is not all he pretends to be.

This production of David Mamet’s “A Life in the Theatre” is the epitome example of what The Shawnee Playhouse* has to offer those in the community who love great theatre. To say this production was well directed and acted would be a gross understatement. This is especially true when one considers another actor had to discontinue his work in the production due to health reasons and needed to be replaced just 10 days prior to opening night.

The play is presented in s series of vignettes with some lasting a few minute while other only consist of uttering a line or two. Just as each moment lived defines the dynamics of any relationship, each vignette serves to enhance not only our understanding the dynamics of the characters’ development, but increases the awareness of how we relate to ourselves and each other. This is often the goal of the theatrical arts (as well as other art forms) and this goal is reached in this exceedingly well done production.

There are many aspects of this play in which an audience member can relate to the occurrences in their life. There is one that holds a special poignancy for me. It is the aspect of the mentoring relationship I mentioned earlier in this review. There were many times throughout my life I soon dismissed those I earlier looked up to as I began to see their valued insights as pompous and out of touch ramblings. I know see my words being dismissed by those who once hung on each one for the very same reason. It saddens my heart. And, I often wonder how many hearts I have saddened; and still do.

Directing oneself in a play is always a challenging endeavor. The person doing so has to be careful not to be the center of the theatrical attention and yet be so when the play calls for it. It is also difficult to focus on the other actors performances while maintaining a quality of your own. The role of Robert was portrayed by the production’s director Chris Centrella* who proved his ability to more than adept in his portrayal of the character he embodied and his ability to serve as the productions’ “Audience of One” which is one of the fundamental functions of a director. The role of John was equally well done by Matt Christie* whose ability to make the transition from a wide eyed fan thrilled to be even noticed by the more experienced actor to becoming someone wary of the seemingly frivolous nature of the man is very impressive in its believability. A great deal of praise is deserved by both actors who brought life and a great deal of depth to their characters.

The Worthington Players* production of “A Life in the Theatre” by David Mamet was Directed by Chris Centrella* and Stage Managed by Robin A. Kessler who also served as the Light Board Operator. The Sound Operator was Leah Rosengarten while the productions Property Mistress was Christina McManus. The Executive Director of The Shawnee Playhouse* is Midge McClosky* while the producers are Ginny and Charlie Kirkwood. Group Sales of their productions are handled by Mary Horn* (who also served as a member of the Box Office Staff) while The Shawnee Playhouse publicity is handled by Amy Cramer*. The Box office staff includes Becky Haskell. Barbara Ross, and Lillian Gonzalez*.

This production of “A Life in the Theatre” by David Mamet will continue its run at The Shawnee Playhouse* in Shawnee on the Delaware, PA until March 22nd and is wholeheartedly recommended for those who enjoy great theatre. The next Shawnee Playhouse* in Shawnee on the Delaware, PA presentations will be “A Walk In The Woods” presented March 27th through April 5th “The Purgatory Diaries” on Saturday April 18th, “Move Over Mrs. Markham April 25th - May 3rd, and “Snapshots” May 15th - 24th. 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 of The Shawnee Playhouse* Productions (excluding Children Theatrical Productions and those presented by non Shawnee Production Companies). Please contact The Shawnee Playhouse* at 570-421-5093 or Explore their website for more information and to reserve your ticket.

Photograph provided by The Shawnee Playhouse depicting Chris Centrella* and Matt Christie*.

(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.