Review: Bare Bones Theatre Company Presents THE LYONS

It is certainly a pleasure seeing a show at the Bare Bones Theatre Company (BTC). All of their productions are truly a labor of love and hard work. Their latest, Nicky Silver's play The Lyons is a perfect production for the intimate theatre.

Directed by BTC's Artistic Director Lynn Antunovich, the dark comedy runs through November 22nd at the Northport venue and boasts a stellar cast.

The tale centers on the Lyons family. The father, Ben, portrayed brilliantly by Jeff Bennett, is dying of cancer and his family, to his annoyance, starts to gather to say their goodbyes. He has taken on an "I'll say what I want" mindset especially his finals days and is really callous to everyone. His wife, Rita, Linda Lavin's role from the 2012 Broadway incarnation, is excellently portrayed by Vicki Milach. Rita looks to move on after being trapped in a loveless forty year marriage. And their adult children, the alcoholic Lisa and story writer Curtis, are superbly portrayed by Aimee Berlin and Eric Clavell. Shocking information and twists are brought to light which ensues several choruses of "Oh My God" and laughter among the audience.

Everyone in the cast is truly top notch. The bond they have, as most of them are BTC vets, is apparent so there is absolutely no hesitation in telling each other off. Which makes sense as you will notice that Mr. Silver's dialog for this story is basically ideal for the Long Island vernacular. Sarcastic one-liners, expletives, and angst abound throughout the story delivered in such a hilarious way. Most of the saga takes place in Ben's hospital room. Kate and Dan Madigan have put together a relevant set and made great use of the dance studio's space. A hospital bed, beside table, and a few chairs for visitors make up the bulk of the production. The second half includes a scene in an empty apartment.

And so, The Lyons is indeed another hit for the Bare Bones Theatre Company. Even with these flaw-filled characters, a sense of empathy will come over you for each of them and a sense of hope for the future of Lisa, Curtis, and Rita. A superb cast and an explosive story make for a thrilling night of theatre.

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The Lyons is presented by the Barebones Theatre Company at the Posey School for Dance of Northport, Long Island, through November 22nd.

By Nicky Silver, Directed by Lynn Antunovich, Stage Management by Steven Clark, Lighting & Sound Design by Jeff Bennett, Set Design by Kate & Dan Madigan, Props by Kate Madigan

Starring Jeff Bennett, Aimee Berlin, Eric Clavell, Vicki Milach, Kayla Scudero, Stephen Zuccaro

For more information and to purchase tickets, please call (631) 606-0026 or visit www.barebonestheater.com