Review: ALBATROSS is Riveting at 59E59

"There was a time when stories were the vessels of knowledge."

from Albatross

The New York premiere of Albatross is now onstage at 59E59 Theaters through Sunday, February 12th. This is a gripping one-man show written by Matthew Spangler and Benjamin Evett, directed by Rick Lombardo, and performed by Benjamin Evett. Albatross is an exciting and dramatic portrayal of a mariner's extensive journey that originates from Bristol, England in the early 1700's. The acclaimed show has won two of Boston's distinguished Elliot Norton Awards for Outstanding Solo Performance and Outstanding Production.

Albatross is inspired by the poem, "The Rime of the Ancient Mariner" by Samuel Taylor Coleridge. As the mariner tells his story, the production incorporates a multimedia presentation to portray his high seas adventure. Spirits, raging storms, battles, and human survival are depicted along with an intimate view of the personal trials of the seafarer. An albatross plays a unique role in the show as it does in Coleridge's poem. After the mariner kills the huge bird, he must wear it around his neck as his punishment and burden. Yet the seabird also brings forth some real revelations.

Benjamin Evett's solo performance as the mariner is stunning as he captures the drama, tension, and occasional humor of the show. He masters the physically and emotionally demanding role. And to relate the story, he seamlessly assumes the parts of colorful characters that include Roger the Dodger and his ship's captain, Black Dog.

The Creative Team has done a wonderful job of bringing Albatross to the stage with set design by Cristina Todesco; costume design by Frances McSherry, lighting and projections design by Garrett Herzig and sound design by Rick Lombardo. The Stage Manager is Leslie Sears and the Assistant Stage Manager is Rebecca C. Monroe.

Albatross is a riveting and affecting theatrical piece that you will long remember. See it while it is on at 59E59 Theaters.

Albatross is produced by The Poets' Theatre, Inc. in Arlington, Massachusetts and Michael Seiden. It runs for 80 minutes with no intermission. The show will be on the 59E59 stage for a limited engagement through Sunday, February 12th. 59E59 Theaters are located at 59 East 59th Street (between Park and Madison Avenues. Tickets are $35 ($24.50 for 59E59 Members). To purchase tickets, call Ticket Central at (212) 279-4200 or visit www.59e59.org.

Photo Credit: Carole Goldfarb