The Graduate at Western Reserve Playhouse

This is the first play adaptation of the classic novel and cult film. Benjamin’s got excellent grades, very proud parents and, since he helped Mrs Robinson with her zipper, a fine future behind him… A cult novel, a classic film, a quintessential hit of the 60s, now Benjamin’s disastrous sexual odyssey is brought vividly to life. “Terry Johnson is that rare creature: a moralist with wit. He writes with responsible gaiety.” (Guardian)

Starring Sullivan Ratcliff as Benjamin Braddock and Jessica Learoyd as the infamous Mrs. Robinson, this is the first production of the new season under WRP's new Artistic Director, August Scarpelli, whose production of The Graduate proves an electric choice for his debut show. Together with an impressive cast and energetic crew, Scarpelli has created and directed an experimental, yet familiar, piece of theater that reminds half of its audience of the cult classic film with a new theatrical edge that in turn entices the other half of its audience-- a generation perhaps less familiar with the film and thus riveted by the twists and turns of the plot.

With a minimalist set deliberately aghast with differing tones of violet, gray, and black (the only stationed props on stage a mere telephone and a single coat hook), the stage and its playful V-shaped rig, "function like a jungle gym," says Ratcliff, who does the most running (and sometimes jumping) on this playground.

Learoyd and Ratcliff are endlessly captivating to watch, both bringing a newfound charisma to both iconic roles. Benjamin this time around has a whole lot more heart, but, perhaps more enticing, Mrs. Robinson and Elaine are significantly more complex, each with hearts and heartbreak of their own. This isn't your parents' Mrs. Robinson.

Performances run three weekends only, tickets are available online or at the door, and there is a drink and snack bar open 30 minutes before each performance and again at intermission. And we always have wine.

FRIDAY APRIL 12, 8pm

SATURDAY APRIL 13, 8pm

FRIDAY APRIL 19, 8pm

SATURDAY APRIL 20, 8pm

SUNDAY APRIL 21, 2pm

FRIDAY APRIL 26, 8pm

SATURDAY APRIL 27, 8pm

Show description and review written by Lauren Koleszar, Production Designer and Photographer