BWW Reviews: Philadelphia Theatre Company's 4000 MILES

Amy Herzog's Pulitzer Prize nominated play 4000 Miles showcases a natural relationship between Vera and her 21-year-old grandson, Leo. Hiding out from family and life in general, Leo returns from a cross-country bike trip for an unplanned stay with Vera in her West Village apartment. As time passes, this feisty independent woman and her hippie grandson become a rather unlikely pair that laugh, learn and love together as one grows up and one grows old, while both grow to depend on the other.

4000 Miles represents the common ground between two generations separated by one that is unrepresented. Though touching on relationships, loss, multi-generational dynamics and remaining relevant throughout life, the play has no overwhelming message or stance but is simply a story about a genuine family.

Vera is based on Herzog's own grandmother who she describes as "very sharp-tongued and quick, very loving and also very critical, just a legendary figure in my family." The character is played by brilliantly by Beth Dixon, who is authentically expressive and charming. Davy Raphaely successfully creates a seemingly apathetic Leo. The cast is completed by Shannon Marie Sullivan as Leo's girlfriend and Leigha Kato as Leo's date.

Directed by Mary B. Robinson, the Philadelphia Theatre Company's production of 4000 Miles runs through November 10. For tickets and more information, visit http://www.philadelphiatheatrecompany.org/.

Photo credit: Paola Nugeras