Review Roundup: NAKED at Berkshire Theatre Group

Hailed as one of the great playwrights of all-time, Nobel Prize-winner Luigi Pirandello's Naked, in a new version by Nicholas Wright, delves deep into the struggle of self-identity, and the tendency to skew reality to benefit desires of the heart. Directed by Eric Hill (BTG: At Home at the Zoo, The Homecoming, Poe), Naked follows the story of a woman, in the midst of questioning her existence, as the men around her impose their view of her into the world.

Stated in Nobel Lectures, "Pirandello's characters attempt to fulfil their self-seeking roles and are defeated by life itself which, always changing, enables them to see their perversity. This is Pirandello's humor, an irony which arises from the contradictions inherent in life."

Let's see what the critics have to say!

Marc Savitt, BroadwayWorld: Solid and strong performances are delivered by each member of the ensemble cast. Particularly noteworthy are James Barry's frenetic portrayal of Laspiga, Jeffrey Doornbos's intensity as Consul Grotti, and Tara Franklin who keeps us in constant wonder as she reveals a multitude of layers that are Ersilia Drei.

Barbara Waldinger, Berkshire On Stage: The play demands enormous energy from the actors, who prove themselves equal to the task. Though David Adkins, a thirty-year veteran of BTG, has very little stage time, he adeptly creates a character who only cares about himself and his next headline. Disappointed about having had to retract his article about Drei, Adkins, sprawled on a chaise lounge (where many of the characters throw themselves periodically), witnesses an argument between Laspiga and Nota, and takes down their words in his notebook while announcing the proposed headlines of the story he'll write.

Mark G. Auerbach, The Westfield: Eric Hill, always the solid director, has showcased the best actors seen on Berkshire Theatre Group stages in recent years, and a fine group o designers. Together, they make Naked a richly satisfying theatre experience. Naked is an indelible way to end a remarkable 90th anniversary season. Congratulations to all involved in such a fine, satisfying season.

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