Review: IAGO at NJ Rep is an Extraordinary Play Wonderfully Presented

"We're really all here to serve our art, there are no egos in the theatre."

by Sir Basil Drill in IAGO

IAGO, a true theatrical masterpiece, is now onstage at New Jersey Repertory Company (NJ Rep) through September 25th. With a brilliant and insightful script by the late James McLure and the splendid direction of the theatre's Artistic Director, Suzanne Barabas, it is a must-see show. The four person cast shines bright in this exquisite production.

In IAGO, a romantic triangle causes turmoil in the lives of famed British actor, Anthony Roland, his protégé, Peter Finney and Tony's wife, Vivacity Wilkes. The show gives a backstage view as they prepare a production of Shakespeare's Othello. Even their renowned director, Sir Basil Drill fails to diffuse the actors' mounting tensions. As the scandalous events proceed, Tony becomes increasingly frustrated with Finney's aggressive behavior while Vivacity struggles with her mixed emotions. The complex situation mirrors themes found in Othello that include love, jealousy, betrayal, revenge and even repentance. This fascinating, humor-laced drama has a plot that draws inspiration from the intimate lives of theatrical legends, Sir Lawrence Olivier, Vivian Leigh, Noel Coward and Peter Finch.

The cast masters James McLure's wonderfully crafted dialogue with impeccable timing. Ezra Barnes captures the role of the celebrated British actor, Anthony Roland. Liza Vann is ideal as the beautiful and talented Vivacity. John FitzGibbon is compelling as the clever yet intense director, Sir Basil Drill and Todd Gearhart is magnetic as the charming, attractive rising star, Peter Finney.

The Production Team has done a fantastic job of creating the mood for IAGO with set design by Charlie Corcoran; technical direction by Brian Snyder; lighting design by Jill Nagle; sound design by Merek Royce Press; costume design by Patricia E. Doherty; properties by Lindy Regan and scenic painting by Donna Styles. The Stage Manager is Jennifer Tardibuono and the Fight Director is Brad Lemons.

Make IAGO part of your upcoming entertainment plans and get your tickets now. It is an entertaining and intriguing romantic story that you will long remember.

The New Jersey Repertory Company is located at 179 Broadway in Long Branch, New Jersey. IAGO will be performed through September 25th on Thursdays and Fridays at 8:00 pm; Saturdays at 3:00 pm and 8:00pm and on Sundays at 2:00 pm. Tickets are $45. Discounts are available for groups of 10 or more. To purchase tickets, visit www.njrep.org or call 732.229.3166.

Photo Credit: SuzAnnne Barabas