Last night, I saw a dress rehearsal for On Golden Pond, put on by Prince William Little Theatre (PWLT) in Manassas, VA. The classic Ernest Thompson play really hasn't lost its lustre, brought to life by the two leading characters of Ethel (Elissa Hudson) and Norman Thayer (George Kitchen). With a believable and charmingly rustic set by Dave Warner, the actors create a true picture of cabin living in the 1980s. Melissa Jo York-Tilley, in her directorial debut, scores a hit. The play moved very well, with no superfluous blocking and no forced moments. Hudson had a straightforward, to the point way of delivering her lines that was reminscent of Katharine Hepburn, and yet she managed to make the role her own. She was alternately funny and highly emotional, and always very real. Kitchen was a superb Norman. A former dancer, Kitchen elegantly and ably transformed his 50 year old body/face/voice into a realistic 80 year old man. He captured all the charm and cool detachment needed to portray the character.
In the supporting roles, Lori Muhlstein as estranged daughter Chelsea was wonderfully disagreeable, spoiled, and believable . August Kruesi as her dentist-boyfriend gave a nicely understated performance, and Caelan Ryberg as his young teenaged son gave us effervescence. Kevin Kirby as the quirky Maine mailman with a torch for Chelsea added a nice comic touch to the overall cast. The costumes were well done (true 80s feel from the David Bowie jacket to the Miami Vice outfit for Bill) and the lighting was well thought out.
I only had one major criticism...the "mood music" added to two highly emotional scenes...it over-dramatized what would have been two beautifully poignant moments. I felt that they were completely unnecessary and detracted rather than enhanced the show. The sound design in general was very good, with a lot of fun 80s tunes and old fashioned radio elements.
Overall, the production was excellent. There wasn't a dull or weak moment, and a lot of care and love has gone into the show. I encourage everyone to see it!
Jennie Dean Elementary School on Prince William Street in Manassas, VA. Show dates: 9/26-10/11, 2008. Please visit: www.pwlt.org for more info.
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1 comment:
Thanks McCall! We are really happy you and Brian were able to make it, and thanks so much for the glowing review! We hope to get lots of folks to come out to see it and enjoy what we have put together...Melissa and the whole cast and crew have done a great job!
wishing you the best,
Dave Warner
Producer/PWLT President
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