Review: 'String of Pearls'

Michele Lowe's one-act play is a modern reworking of Arthur Schnitzler's classic German play, La Ronde. Schnitzler's play looked at a series of connected romantic and sexual liaisons over a  number of years. With String of Pearls we follow a single strand as it wends its way to more than a dozen owners over the course of 35 years.  String of Pearls was originally presented off-Broadway in 2004 with four actors playing all the roles. Theatre Erindale expands the cast to allow a number of students a chance to shine as they take us on a fascinating journey.

This is a very funny play, and at times surprisingly touching. It also offers a subtle social commentary on the changing sexual mores and attitudes.  The title has an erotically charged double meaning in at least one of the vignettes. It also explores the evolving and often challenging roles women are faced with in modern society.

Director Ralph Small ensures that this episodic tale is performed at a brisk pace, showcasing each each of the performers in the interconnected vignettes. Of particular note are Stacey Gawrylash as the political consultant, Helene, Hallie Seline as the brave mother,  Ela, and Kristen Zaza as the lonely grave digger, Cindy.

Julian Munds has  bright cameo in drag as the domineering mother Gloria. He also shines in the brief curtain raiser that precedes  Pearls. The Spot is a short piece - barely 12 minutes long - detailing the production of an ad for a political candidate.   Munds is the commanding senior political advisor, and although intended as satire it is probably closer to reality than we would like to believe.  

Performances of  The Spot and String of Pearls continue at Theatre Erindale until Saturday February 27. Weeknight performances start at 7:30, with 8:00 curtain times on Friday and Saturday. There is also a 2:00 matinee on Saturday February 27. For tickets go to www.theatreeindale.com or call 905-569-4369.

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