Review: VILLAINOUS COMPANY is an Intriguing New Show at NJ Rep

New Jersey Repertory Company (NJ Rep) continues its successful season with VILLAINOUS COMPANY through June 5th. Written by Victor L. Cahn, this clever new play enjoys the inspired direction of the theater's Artistic Director, SuzAnne Barabas. The show is an absorbing depiction of a mysterious caper and the women behind it.

In VILLAINOUS COMPANY, Claire, a chic young woman, frequently visits The Center mall to make extravagant purchases. After a shopping trip, she discovers that one of her parcels is missing and phones the store. Unexpectedly, a shop employee and security person, Tracy arrives at her home to return the item and stays an uncomfortably long time to interrogate Claire. The plot thickens when Claire's friend Joanna, who deals in expensive art and artifacts, stops by. The story takes interesting twists and turns as clandestine maneuvering leads to shocking consequences.

The talented cast masters the intrigue of VILLAINOUS COMPANY and the play's fast-paced dialogue. The show stars Phoenix Vaughn as Claire; Melissa Macleod Herion as Tracy and Corey Tazmania as Joanna. Each of them captures the distinctive personalities of their characters.

The NJ Rep Production Team brings VILLAINOUS COMPANY to life 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 Trardibuono is the Stage Manager.

VILLAINOUS COMPANY is a suspenseful and captivating show. Mystery lovers and many more will enjoy visiting NJ Rep during their spring season to see this well staged escapade come to life on the Long Branch Stage.

VILLAINOUS COMPANY will run through Sunday, June 5th at New Jersey Repertory Company. The theater is located at 179 Broadway, Long Branch convenient to Pier Village and fine dining. Tickets may be purchased by calling 732-229-3166 or at www.njrep.org.

Photo Credit: SuzAnne Barabas