BWW Reviews: Black Rep's Excellent Production of ON GOLDEN POND

I remember seeing the movie version of On Golden Pond, and though it's very well done, it's awfully mawkish and sentimental. I've kind of avoided the movie ever since, just because I really didn't feel like having a cry fest. But, the actual play by Ernest Thompson is surprisingly amusing and touching, and rarely goes overboard on the sentimentality. The Black Rep's current production is a very entertaining, moving, and funny presentation buoyed by the performances of an excellent cast.

For forty-eight years Norman and Ethel Thayer have been spending their summers in Maine on the shores of Golden Pond. As he nears his eightieth birthday, Norman is beginning to forget things, like the familiar woodland paths of Golden Pond. He's scared because he knows the end is in sight, but he puts up a front of abrasiveness, mixed with his own brand of curmudgeonly humor, to distance himself emotionally. It's the same approach he's taken for years with his estranged daughter, Chelsea. But, it's her visit with her new boyfriend and his teenage son, that finally opens up their channels of communication. The youngster provides Norman with the son/grandson he never had, and allows him to accept his daughter's offer of friendship.

Ron Himes gives a terrific performance as Norman. While Norman is certainly a flawed individual, his sharp wit, though often caustic and cutting, acts to relieve the dramatic tension before things get too mushy. As his loving and playful wife Ethel, Linda Kennedy is an absolute delight. Kennedy brings the right mix of concern and denial to the role, and the pair share a chemistry that really brings their characters to life.

Kathi Bentley does fine work as their daughter, Chelsea. Her body language reveals as much about the anxiety she feels in her father's presence as her dialogue does. When they finally do reconcile it's the expression on Bentley's face at that instant that seals the intent. Chauncy Thomas is solid as her boyfriend, dentist Bill Ray, and his initial meeting with Norman is a riot of tension and release as they verbally spar and parry with one another. Chris Cross contributes good work as his son, Billy, Jr., and his smart-mouthed interactions with Himes are really vital in bringing Norman out of his emotional shell. AaRon Baker has a blast as Charlie Martin, the Golden Pond mailman, who also happens to be a former boyfriend of Chelsea. His infectious laugh and fitful disposition are especially amusing.

Lorna Littleway's direction is sharply focused, but the pace of the play itself is a bit leisurely. Still, she does exceptional work with this talented ensemble. Jim Burwinkel's scenic design is gorgeous and really brings the atmosphere of the cabin to life in eye-popping fashion. Nathan Sheuer's lighting adds a warm glow to the proceedings, and Em Rossi's costumes are nice fits for each character. Robin Weatherall's sound design adds additional mood with the sounds of the woods spilling in, particularly the much talked about loons.

The Black Rep's excellent production of On Golden Pond continues through February 5, 2012.

Also, in honor of the week-long celebration of Martin Luther King day, the Black Rep is offering a $20 special for all tickets to Wednesday's 7pm performance of the play.

To post a comment, you must register and login.