6 / 10
In any case, if the play’s point is unclear, the production has its pleasure, not least seeing Marisa Tomei on stage express an impressive range of emotions, from ecstasy to fury to resignation and regret to… rock n roll. She and Gracie McGraw dance to snippets of original rock music composed for the production by the group BETTY.
4 / 10
Directed by Scott Elliott, the production takes some time to catch fire. Arliss and McGraw plumb the depths of their characters as the play progresses and, particularly in Arliss's performance, infuse the portrayals with empathy. Initially, however, they are presented as broad comic types. The set-up, recalling David Mamet's Oleanna, limits Tomei's character to responding to the situation, her emotions expressed through stilted and awkward physical gestures. Additionally, Goldberg's depiction of an unlikely flirtation between the women feels contrived, and its only purpose seems to be for highlighting Abigail's troubled history. The backstory does, however, provide opportunities for a handful of effective grunge and punk songs by the indie rock band BETTY. (Jessica Paz's sound design contributes to the periodic rock-concert ambiance.)
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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