THE PLAY: Set in 1985 New York City, 2 couples struggle with their relationships. This merely serves as a framework for the discussion of American politics, religion, racism, sex, homophobia and most importantly, the fear and prejudice around the AIDS epidemic in its early years.

 

THE PRODUCTION: An important piece of theater like this demands a combination of powerful performances and skillful staging. This excellent cast handles Tony Kushner’s cascade of words and elaborate symbolism with great skill. Director Bo Wilson has made every minute of the 3-hour production compelling (although the sometimes silent, musical-tables scene changes diluted the momentum). Frank Foster’s simple but effective set of silhouetted outlines is brought to life by Michael Jarett’s dynamic lighting. This production is practically flawless, but slight on the emotional thrust that should fill the stage with dramatic power.

 

THE POINT: As is often the case with Kushner’s work, this skillfully mounted production is a triumph of the intellectual over the emotional.

 

(4.5 / 5)

 

At Richmond Triangle Players thru 4/25