It's a worthwhile play, but I don't think either the staging or acting presented it to greatest advantage. As a result, the first act failed to register much; the second was tighter and better focused. Perhaps matters will improve in the course of previews. The jazz trio did a very good job.
After Eight said: "It's a worthwhile play, but I don't think either the staging or acting presented it to greatest advantage. As a result, the first act failed to register much; the second was tighter and better focused. Perhaps matters will improve in the course of previews. The jazz trio did a very good job.
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Does this piece translate across the pond? Steven Patrick Morrissey loves this play though
I saw the Broadway production in December 1960 and was very moved by it. Angela Lansbury was terrific as the mother, but it was Joan Plowright as Jo, who really made the piece. Hers was a totally unforgettable performance, and i would think any production of the play needs a great Jo to work. The other three actors were wonderful as well. About fifteen years ago I saw a small off off Broadway production and the play seemed slow and plodding. Was it just my youth, or five incredible actors that made it work so much the first time? Tony Richardson also directed a movie version of it with an actress named Rita Tushingham playing Jo that also might be worth checking out.
For those of you interested the brilliant 1961 film adaptation directed by Tony Richardson and starring Dora Bryan and Rita Tushingham was released by Criterion on DVD and blu-ray disc on August 23rd.
The Glenbuck Laird said: "After Eight said: "It's a worthwhile play, but I don't think either the staging or acting presented it to greatest advantage. As a result, the first act failed to register much; the second was tighter and better focused. Perhaps matters will improve in the course of previews. The jazz trio did a very good job.
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Does this piece translate across the pond? Steven Patrick Morrissey loves this play though
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I found a college production incredibly moving, but that was (gulp) 45 years ago. I'd be more concerned that it might feel dated now than that it is British.
I saw the recent London revival at the National and found it compelling, but what blew me away was the subject matter and the age of the (FEMALE!!) playwright when she wrote it (18!!!).