Review: PROMISING at The Beckett Theatre Captures Political Scandal and Intrigue

"You're supposed to stop the people you love from making mistakes that could ruin their lives."

-PROMISING

PROMISING is now making its New York City Premiere at The Beckett Theatre on Theatre Row through December 5th. Written by Michelle Elliott and directed by Terry Berliner, this play has an intense, captivating plot, excellent staging and features extraordinary acting.

PROMISING is set in an apartment on the 40th floor of a modern high rise in Manhattan. In the show, New York City Councilman, David Carver is running for re-election with only 13 days to go in his campaign. He already holds a 19-point lead in the poles over his Republican rival. Suddenly, a bombshell report accuses the charismatic young politician of sexual assault. With a members of the media stationed in front of his apartment, Carver along with his campaign manager, Verity, his sister, Gemma and trusted friend, Shed collaborate to take control of the situation. Tensions rise as they work to salvage Carver's promising future in politics. As the plot unfolds, personal relationships between these allies complicate matters and even more secrets are revealed.

The four-person cast captures their roles perfectly. Jake Robards plays the charming yet troubled politician, David whose future hangs in the balance when a young woman accuses him of rape. Jolie Curtsinger portrays David's attractive, tenacious campaign manager, Verity who is determined to have him overcome the scandal. Kim Wong plays David's rebellious, half-sister, Gemma who suddenly appears at his apartment after dropping out of Stanford. Zachary Clark portrays Shed, David's loyal friend of 20 years and his clever speechwriter.

The design team has brought PROMISING to life with scenic design by James J. Fenton, costume design by Teresa Snider-Stein, lighting design by Paul Miller and Kirk Fitzgerald and sound design by Scott Stauffer. The Stage Manager is Jaime McWilliams.

PROMISING is a timely piece of theatre that realistically depicts how scandals change the course of political careers. While the subject matter is serious, the characters are wholly genuine and the show is laced with humorous moments that keep this fast moving play entertaining. See PROMISING now while it's on a limited engagement through December 5th.

PROMISING is presented by InProximity Theatre Company. It is onstage at the Beckett Theatre on Theatre Row, 410 West 42nd Street, New York, NY 10036. The performance schedule is Tuesday at 7 PM; Wednesday - Friday at 8 PM; Saturday at 2 PM & 8 PM; Sunday at 3 PM. There are added Wednesday matinee performances on November 25 and December 2 at 2 PM; there is no performance on Thanksgiving (Thursday, November 26). Tickets are $25 and are available by calling Telecharge at 212-239-6200 or online via www.telecharge.com.

Photo Credit: Michael Ciquino

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