I'm taking a little break from BWW, but I thought I'd pop back in and share my thoughts regarding
The Homecoming. I was able to see it last weekend (December 30th, 3 pm matinee) with my parents.
I've read some reviews in which the sentiment is "if this isn't your kind of play, then you may not enjoy it." I couldn't agree more. However, that's not to say it can't be enjoyed, as it just takes some getting used to. With
The Homecoming you're left to pick apart the characters and give them backstories, depending on your own preference. (Lenny is probably the best example when it comes to having a backstory. Ever since my dad told me of the NYT review where they call him a "sociopath pimp" I've been having quite some fun imagining what he does in his spare time).
Anyways, on to my review/thoughts (I apologize if it isn't as nicely written as others... it's just a lot to digest).
*************************
THE HOMECOMING
It’s fairly easy to comprehend in the sense that all of the characters are trying to outdo each other in some regard. Max, the father, constantly berates his brother Sam for one reason or another. Teddy, the oldest son, causes tension when he returns to England from America unexpectedly. After living there for nine years, he decides to come home with his lovely wife, Ruth, which instantly sets flares with Lenny , the middle son, (whose “occupation” is a pimp) and Joey, the youngest, an aspiring boxer. By doing this, he sets a greater riff in the family, by letting them know that he is “better than them” because he has a nice family (three sons are mentioned but are at home in the States).
Ruth, one could say, is responsible for much of the tension caused, although it is obvious there has been some atomicity there for quite some time before. Her slinky and savory side seeps out and gets the attention of Lenny (whom she first encounters when he comes into the living room in his pajamas (because he is having trouble falling to sleep). Attraction brews, as he purposely leans over her (not just to get the ashtray, rather to get a good look at her). She dares him to come sit on her lap and “take a nice cool sip” from her water cup. There is ammunition for trouble, and that's what makes the remainder of the play such a devious delight.
To see how each character interacts – the very dynamic of the ensemble – is a wonder to behold. Every actor is on top of their game, particularly Ian McShane as Max. He gives the role a hardened feel (whenever he feels his power is endangered he has his cane out, ready to give anybody who crosses him a lashing). Yet by the end has the audience feeling pity for him; also Raul Esparza, who plays Lenny in such a deliciously naughty way that one finds themself not wanting to like him yet at the same time totally enamored by his anecdotes and personality. His intensity oozes from the stage and is reminiscent of Marlon Brando, circa
A Streetcar Named Desire. There is something quite Stanley-esque about the character of Lenny. Perhaps, it is his penchant for unpredictable behavior that makes him terrifying. [Personally, I was afraid during several moments. Particularly when he is telling Ruth of a woman he met whilst waiting underneath an arch. The woman made him a sort of “proposal” and he beat her up. His excuse was that she was diseased so he wouldn’t have any part of dealing with her. When Ruth asks him what made her diseased, he coldly responds, “
I decided she was.”] A special mention goes to Eve Best, who controlled the stage with her subtleness as Ruth. By the end, she was the one in charge and the boys – albeit Teddy – were ready to appease her by any means possible. Michael McKean also deserves to be mentioned, as he is simply endearing as Sam. He brings a sort of “realness” amidst the oddness of the family.
Perhaps this “homecoming” isn’t so much a joyous event as it is an examination of human behavior at its most desperate and disastrous. After witnessing such lewdness first hand, one may be surprised to find a little part of what they've just seen in part of their own family, or in the families of people they may know. That, above any sexual undertone, is the most frightening thing of all.
***********************
After the show, I met Raul (got his autograph and picture). Luckily, he was the third one and there wasn't much of a crowd. I was able to talk to him, although it was a bit overwhelming because I didn't know quite what to say at first but managed to quietly tell him, "I just wanted to let you know that you're my hero." He took my arm and thanked me for saying something so thoughtful and nice. (I think I may have stunned him a little bit, though!) My mom then said "You're an inspiration to her!" and he asked if I wanted to be an actor. We talked a little more after that, then my dad shook his hand and we all wished him a happy new year before parting ways.
(He's incredibly lovely. I think everyone should meet him at least once in their lives.)
"I am and always will be the optimist. The hoper of far-flung hopes and dreamer of improbable dreams." - Doctor Who
"Yes, the brutalities of progress are called revolutions. When they are over, men recognize that the human race has been harshly treated but it has moved forward." - Les Miserables
Updated On: 1/7/08 at 02:33 AM
