BWW Reviews: HotCity Theatre's Intriguing Production of MAPLE AND VINE

With his work, Maple and Vine, playwright Jordan Harrison presents an interesting choice for the modern family struggling to cope with the modern world. They are given a chance to let go of all their connections to the information highway and head back in time to 1955. For some, this is the opportunity to start life anew, albeit, in a time that's fraught with issues of its own. HotCity Theatre is presenting an excellent production of this Serling-esque piece, and it's the kind of must-see experience that I always recommend; one that makes you laugh and think.

Katha and Ryu are having problems in their mixed marriage, but it has nothing to do with race. It has everything to do with the stresses of everyday living and working, combined with Katha's inability to deal successfully with a miscarriage she suffered. One day a man named Dean, in a odd looking period suit and hat, gives a pamphlet to Katha that changes her perspective. Though her husband, Ryu, is skeptical to say the least, he eventually agrees to give the idea. The idea is that they will live in a self-sustaining community where the year is always 1955, it never goes forward or backward. The conventions and social mores of that era are in place as well, which means that their mixed marriage is looked upon much differently. I'd like to write more, but I'd be spoiling the various twists and turns that this engaging work presents.

Shanara Gabrielle is terrific as Katha (renamed Kathy in her 1955 setting), gasping for breath under the weight of a daily routine that never seems to let up. She embraces her new surrounding wholeheartedly, and winds up heading the committee on authenticity. Alan C. David also does strong work as her husband Ryu, an in-demand plastic surgeon in his previous life, he finds himself putting together cardboard boxes in his new home. Chad Morris charms as Dean, the founder of this little "Peyton Place", who seems to be living a dream, but has a number of skeletons in his closet. Michelle Hand is excellent as the typical homemaker from this period in time, and I can't imagine anyone else in the role. Her forced smiles and hardened exterior only mask the pain she feels inside. Robby Suozzi does a nice job as the insouciant Omar, and also as Roger, a worker at the box assembly plant who's trying to keep his own particular proclivities under wraps.

Doug Finlayson's direction pulls vibrant and colorful performances from the small ensemble. The action is paced well, and the scenes transition smoothly. Sean Savoie's scenic design captures the period look with minimal pieces. Meg Brinkley provides the props which fit the time depicted as well. Michael Sullivan's lighting captures the various moods with subtle style. JC Krajicek's costumes also add to the overall atmosphere.

Maple and Vine is a fascinating work, and HotCity Theatre's wonderful production continues through May 18, 2013 at the Kranzberg Arts Center.

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