BWW Reviews: CLOSURE at NJ Rep is Fascinating Mystery

"You're not crazy, you just can't stop hoping."

-Closure

Closure, a suspenseful World Premiere drama, is now on a limited engagement at the New Jersey Repertory Company (NJ Rep) through July 19th. This captivating mystery by renowned playwright Richard Dresser has inspired, artful direction by Joe Cacici. And with the show's all-star cast, it is a gripping theatrical event.

In Closure, Jane and Peter's teenage daughter disappears while on a spring break vacation in the Bahamas. Roy Hadley, an island detective, takes charge of the investigation. Personal dilemmas and surprising disclosures surface as the case becomes more and more complex.

The four-person cast is so stunningly talented, it seems like Closure is happening in real time. Wendy Malik stars as Jane, the distraught yet hopeful mother whose sole mission is to find her daughter. Victor Verhaeghe plays Peter the father, a serious-minded businessman who seems ready to move on with life. Gary Cole portrays Detective Roy Hadley, a tough and smart law enforcement official, seemingly very dedicated to locating the missing young woman. Biniam Tekola plays Ken, a native islander and a "person of interest" who was last seen with the missing teen. The company's incredibly skillful portrayal of this mystery keeps you perplexed to the very last moment.

The design team had done an extraordinary job of bringing the ambiance of the Caribbean islands to the Long Branch stage with scenic design by Jessica Parks, lighting design by Jill Nagle, costume design by Patricia E. Doherty, and sound design by Merek Royce Press. Jennifer Tardibuono is the show's Stage Manager.

Mystery lovers and many more will be intrigued and entertained by Closure. NJ Rep is presenting an excellent summer production for New Jersey theatergoers.

Closure will be presented at New Jersey Repertory Company through July 19th. The show runs 90 minutes without an intermission. The theatre is located at 179 Broadway in Long Branch, New Jersey 07740. For ticketing and more information, call (732) 229-3166 or visit www.njrep.org.

Photo Credit: SuzAnne Barabas