4 / 10
“Babe” runs only 85 minutes. Goldberg packs into her play both too much and not enough. Beyond Abigail’s variable health, there’s something too simplistic in the equation that female equals brilliant, male equals dumb. Is it possible that both Gus and Abigail are equally good at their job, but the one has all the power, fame and money? Then again, that novel idea might take another 10 or 15 minutes of stage time.
4 / 10
Director Scott Elliott fails to make the proceedings fully coherent, and such stylistic devices as having actors silently remain onstage even when their characters are not in the scene simply feel pretentious. The performers struggle with their underwritten roles; Howard, playing Gus with suitable bluster, feels miscast, the actor’s natural likability at odds with his character’s piggishness. Tomei fares the best, conveying her character’s emotional and physical travails with intensity and humor. But it’s not enough to prevent Babe from feeling schematic in its #MeToo movement themes.
See photos from the Opening Celebration for The New Group production of Jessica Goldberg's 'Babe,' launching the Company's 30th Anniversary Season.
The New Group production Babe is officially open at The Pershing Square Signature Center. The production of the play from Jessica Goldberg, features Arliss Howard, Gracie McGraw and Marisa Tomei, in a production directed by Scott Elliott and featuring original music by BETTY. Read the reviews below.
The New Group production Babe will welcome the band BETTY for a special post-show talkback and LIVE MUSIC concert following the 7:00PM performance on Tuesday, December 3.
Rehearsals are underway for Jessica Goldberg’s Babe, with Marisa Tomei, Arliss Howard and Gracie McGraw. Directed by Scott Elliott and featuring original music by BETTY, Babe begins performances October 29 in advance of Official Opening Night on Wednesday, November 20. Check out rehearsal photos here!
The New Group has revealed the complete cast for Jessica Goldberg’s Babe including Arliss Howard, Gracie McGraw and Marisa Tomei. See who is starring and learn how to purchase tickets.
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