THE THEATER MIRROR, New England's LIVE Theater Guide
|
MARQUEE | USHER | SEATS |
INTERMISSION | CURTAIN |
note: entire contents copyright 2002 by Beverly Creasey
If you missed Lyric West's "Frankie & Johnnie in The Clair de Lune" give yourself a swift kick. You won't see better acting anywhere this season. Director Fran Weinberg's luminous production of the touching Terrence McNally gem (It's my favorite of his) featured Maureen Keiller and Doug Marsden as the overeager short-order cook and the reluctant waitress who's the object of his affections. It's an affection that borders on obsession --- happily so, or there wouldn't be any play.
Jeff Gardner's New York apartment set is just right down to the imitation Tiffany lamp which casts reverberating shadows on the lovers --- whose own dark shadows nearly cost them their connection.
As nutty as Johnnie seems, Marsden redeemed him when he magically made Frankie's scar 'disappear'. Keiller made it worth wait to see her soften and open her heart to this misfit. Two lovely performances. One enduring connection. Bravo.