Review: STRUCK at NJ Rep is Engaging and Intriguing

"It feels like the universe is trying to tell me something."

-STRUCK

The World Premiere of STRUCK by Sandy Rustin is now onstage at New Jersey Repertory Company (NJ Rep) through July 31st. With meticulous direction by Don Stephenson and featuring a stellar cast, this show is both entertaining and thought provoking. STRUCK strikes the delicate balance between a serious subject and the amusing moments in people's everyday lives.

In STRUCK, Vera Resnick, an aspiring young actress, is struck by James, a bicyclist and NYU student, as she was crossing a busy intersection in lower Manhattan. The accident has surprising consequences that bring Vera and her husband, Nate into an elaborate, clandestine plot. Unexpected revelations about Vera's Jewish family ties come to light at a time when the young couple is looking forward to starting their own family. STRUCK has twists and turns that keep you completely captivated.

The interesting, well-crafted characters are perfectly portrayed with Susan Maris as Vera, Adam Bradley as Nate and Ben Puvalowski as James. Rounding out the cast is Jenny Bacon as Vicky, the Resnick's colorful, new-age neighbor and Matthew Shepard as Bertrand, the French businessman. This remarkably talented troupe delivers a completely genuine portrayal of this intriguing sociopolitical story.

The production team has done a fantastic job of bringing STRUCK to the stage with set design and props by Jessica Parks; technical direction by Brian Snyder; lighting design by Jill Nagle; sound design by Merek Royce Press and costume design by Patricia E. Doherty. Jennifer Tardibuono is the Stage Manager.

Bravo to Executive Producer, Gabor Barabas and Artistic Director, Suzanne Barabas for bringing 20 successful seasons and 112 new works to the Long Branch Stage and making STRUCK available to metropolitan area audiences this summer.

STRUCK will be performed at New Jersey Repertory Company through July 31st. The theatre is located at 179 Broadway, Long Branch. Tickets may be purchased by calling 732.229.3166 or by visiting their web site at www.njrep.org.

Photo Credit: Suzanne Barabas