Actors Rep Artistic Director Michael Weaver reports that of the nine shows his theater has produced so far, the biggest money-makers have been *Dirty Blonde,* "The Drawer Boy,* "Mrs. Warren's Profession* and *The Dazzle* — with sobering conclusions, every one of 'em.
People want light, escapist fare — get away from their troubles, right? But apparently plays that pose problems, count on intelligent listeners and conclude in bittersweet indecision (sort of like life) are not at all the kind of box office poison that some folks assume them to be.
Weaver says he'd been planning a "light and frothy" 2006-07 season for ARt. It's not going to be light and frothy anymore. And with the Patty Duke comedy already scheduled, it's time to find some of the serious stuff.
I think there's certainly a 'light and frothy' element to enjoying theater, people go first and foremost to get something out of it. Some laughs, and some thought behind the laughs. Somthing that touches us.
ReplyDeleteBut no matter what the script, you need need skilled performers who can bring out the humor, AND be believable in the situation: to make the audience think about the "bittersweet indecision." In performing quality, ARt has delivered.
Performing quality yes, visual quality no, and when is someone going to call them on it?
ReplyDeleteThank you I agree costumes for Dazzle were horrific.You should expect more guys.
ReplyDeleteVisual quality? THE DAZZLE was stunning visually. That set was magnificent. Contrast its complexity with the stark effectiveness of JACOB MARLEY'S CHRISTMAS CAROL last year. ARt's shows are as visually interesdting as anywhere else in town. Costumes horrific? Well, maybe I know nothing about clothes design, but where it REALLY matters, ARt has it going on.
ReplyDeleteNext time you think costuming doesn't matter, try going out there in your own clothes and saying words that aren't yours.
ReplyDeleteI agree that costuming is important in creating character and keeping the actor at ease. I thought the costumes for "The Dazzle" were terrific in delineating the emotional and psycoligical aspects of the characters. Very good work all on this amazing production.
ReplyDeleteGreat script. Great set props. The rest, well... wasn't connected.
ReplyDeletei wish i had seen it.it is heartening however that that Theatre's such as Art and Spokane Civic are beginning to offer consistantly good theatre for the most part.Keep up the good work.
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