Another Streetcar Review
Another Streetcar Review
kaliedascope786
Chorus Member Joined: 6/10/04
#0Another Streetcar Review
Posted: 4/2/05 at 12:42pm
Is it possible to create a believable major production of ‘Streetcar’ after the movies’ success has been imprinted on our brains? Who could possibly break the image of Marlon Brando with his stirring … “Stella”? With brilliant performances from Ms. Richardson, Mr. Reilly, who often reminds me of my older brother in this role, Ms Ryan, Mr. Bauer and Ms Nielsen the Roundabout Theater company has created a cast with the talent, ability and passion to break the mold and transport us to the very tenuous world in which they like to call home.
This is not a carefree production. The cast works for every chuckle, tear and gasp. Most impressive was the work from Mr. Bauer and Ms. Ryan. I believed them, connected with them and in a large theater where the intimacy is sometimes lost, this is a miraculous feat. A side note to Mr. Bauer: as much as I love you in Third Watch, I am most intrigued by your stage presence and delight in the thought you will return to the stage again in the future.
Donald Holder’s moody lighting highlights the stunning scenic design by Robert Brill. With each glimmer that passes a moving fan blade you are immediately in the tenuous world of New Orleans. I hope that William Ivey Long will bring the Blanche’s stunning white satin dress to the public. Ladies, attend this performance just for Blanche’s wardrobe. Absolutely gorgeous.
Aside from some technical improvements, there is a need to create flow in this production. At times the text seems broken. There is an inherent danger in directing a work that is well known in today’s theater audience. Mr. Hall has decided to tackle this by creating more humane characters, which we find in John C. Reilly’s interpretation of Stanley Kuwalski. Flinching when Mr. Reilly raises his hands is believable. Taking advantage of Blanche at times is not. Perhaps with time, this frightening moment will improve.
Natasha Richardson’s Blanche is human, compassionate and brings memories of family members you delight in only having to see once a year. This is a complement to Ms. Richardson and her craft. From stance to the tiniest hand gestures, Ms. Richardson is a beautiful, sexy and delightful Blanche DuBois worthy of a Tony nomination.
If you want to enjoy the sultry heat of summer a bit early, stop by Studio 54 to see A Streetcar Named Desire and warm those old wounds.
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