THE PLAY: In this minimalist masterpiece by Samuel Beckett, a wizened old man listens to a tape recording he made when he was 39, then records one final message.

 

THE PRODUCTION: Alan Sader is an accomplished actor, but this is the most memorable performance by him that I’ve witnessed. With a red nose, unruly hair and a faltering gait, he’s created a character that’s sadly funny and sweetly touching. It’s 30 minutes before he utters a word (only grunts and coughs before then), but the opening business is quietly hilarious, with his mastery of every stumble and slip. As time unfolds, his frail demeanor translates into genuine sadness as he attempts to reconcile with his character’s loss and regret. This is a perfect teaming with director James Ricks. Every movement is meticulously choreographed (often to wonderful comic effect) and each moment is masterfully created (to rich theatrical outcome). Todd Labelle’s set is primarily a wall of file cabinets, but combined with his evocative lighting, it creates a softly surreal environment. I watched the streaming version and the production values were excellent.

 

Running time: 1:40 (includes a 15-minute guitar concert by Ryan Phillips followed by 5 minutes of reflection before the play begins)

 

THE POINT: With accomplished physicality and emotional sensitivity Alan Sader and director James Ricks have masterfully created a tragic farce that will stand as a landmark in local theatre.

 

(5 / 5)

 

At Firehouse Theatre thru 2/20 with final streamed performance on 2/19.