Review: PERICLES at TRT is Exciting and Inventive

Two River Theater (TRT) in Red Bank is currently Pericles by William Shakespeare through May 8th. This inventive and extraordinary production is directed by David Schweizer and choreographed by Dan Knechtges. The original music and lyrics are by Rinde Eckert with musical direction by Ian Axness. The epic tale is cleverly set in a dive bar at the end of the world, East Village-esque, with a hip live band onstage. It is sure to please Shakespeare enthusiasts and bring a whole new audience to enjoy the works of The Bard.

Pericles is an exciting story of adventure and romance. When Pericles discovers King Antiochus' incestuous relationship with his daughter, Pericles must flee his Kingdom. His troubles are compounded by the loss of his beloved wife, Thaisa while navigating a brutal storm at sea. Stricken with grief, Pericles entrusts the care of his precious newborn daughter, Marina to Governor Cleon and his wife, Dionyza believing that his child will be well cared for. But as Marina matures to be more beautiful and charming than Cleon and Dionyza's own daughter, Dionyza plots to murder Marina. The fascinating story takes the most unpredictable twists and turns. TRT's cleverly staged production puts a modern spin on Pericles with music, meditation and mayhem while maintaining the true sensibility of the classic.

TRT has assembled a stellar company for Pericles. The troupe of thespians shines bright as they assume multiple roles and perform the outstanding musical score. The cast includes J. Clint Allen, Philippe Bowgen, Rinde Eckert, Ellen Harvey, Kevin Mambo, Nikki Massoud and Mary Testa. The Musicians include Ian Axness and Will Bernard.

The design team has captured the "dive bar" setting with scenic design by Caleb Wertenbaker; costume design by Gabriel Berry; lighting design by Christopher Akerlind; sound design by Ryan Rumery and wig design by Cookie Jordan. Casting is by Jack Doulin + Sharky. The production Stage Manager is Emily C. Rolston.

See Pericles at TRT. We applaud Two River Theatre for making this wonderful production available to New Jersey audiences.

Pericles will be performed in Two River's Rechnitz Theater, 21 Bridge Avenue, Red Bank through Sunday, May 8. Tickets are available by calling 732.345.1400 or by visiting www.tworivertheater.org. The lead producer is Investment Bank.

Photo Credit: T. Charles Erickson