SYLVIA Comes to Theater Uncorked

Things are about to get a little "ruff" at Theater UnCorked with their production of A.R. Gurney's Sylvia. Sylvia, directed by Michelle M. Aguillon, is the final production of Theater UnCorked's inaugural season.

Sylvia tells the story of Greg, a middle-aged, empty-nester who is tired of his job in finance and is looking for meaning in his life. Sylvia, an exuberant and beautiful stray in Central Park, is looking for a new home. When they meet, it is love at first sight. Greg's wife Kate, however, is less than thrilled by the street-smart canine who jumps, slobbers and takes all of Greg's attention. Sylvia quickly becomes a "bone of contention" between Greg and Kate, testing their marriage to hilarious and touching effort.

Sylvia explores modern relationships. Gurney himself has said, "it's a timely message of the need to connect in an increasingly alien and impersonal world. There is a need to connect, not only to a dog, but to other people through the dog."

Aguillon is planning to take Theater UnCorked's production even further. "From my perspective, it's also about how being disconnected to our world, can lead to connecting to a pet, because they love us unconditionally," Aguillon shared. "They don't judge. They just love. Sometimes that can heal and help relate back to the world. It can sometimes though, separate us even more."

Theater UnCorked's Sylvia stars Shana Dirik as Sylvia, Allan Mayo* as Greg, Val Sullivan as Kate, and David Anderson as Tom, Phyllis, and Leslie. Aguillon saw Dirik on stage for the first time 21 years ago as Sylvia and was interested in revisiting the piece again. "It's a timely, funny play, and Shana has the comic brilliance needed," Aguillon said. "Our entire cast is strong, all with great comic timing. They also possess the gravitas to make these characters realistic and easily relatable."

Aguillon doesn't feel the need to improve on the wonderful production of Sylvia she saw 21 years ago, but does feel she brings a different perspective. "The director of the production I saw 21 years ago (a friend of mine) was male. I look forward to exploring the play through Kate's perspective as well as Greg's."

Sylvia is being presented at Carol G. Deane Hall at the Calderwood Pavilion in Boston, MA. Performances begin on April 18 and run through April 21. Performances are Thursday, April 18that 7:30pm, Friday, April 19that 8pm, Saturday, April 20that 8pm, and Sunday, April 21stat 2pm. For tickets, call 617.933.8600 or visit bostontheatrescene.com.

*denotes member of Actors' Equity Association

Photo:   Shana Dirik as Sylvia.  Photo credit:  David Costa