Review: ENTERTAINING MR SLOANE Breaks All the Rules

My reaction to the Edge of the Universe Players 2's production of ENTERTAINING MR SLOAN was probably similar to the reaction when the show first premiered in 1964. I was disturbed and uncomfortable. That said, it does not mean it was bad. In fact, in many ways the production was well-done.

ENTERTAINING MR SLOAN concentrates on the relationships of the middle-aged siblings of Kath (Claire Schoonover) and Ed (Jim Jorgensen), their father Kemp (David Bryan Jackson), and a new lodger at Kath's home, Mr Sloane (Matthew Aldwin McGee). Over the course of the play, Kath and Ed compete for the sexual preferences of a deprave Sloane.

Individually, the actors did quite well. Schoonover captured the insanity of Kath. Every physical detail from the crazy eyes to her ability to believe her own lies, were astounding. Jorgensen was the controlling and sexist older brother. He nailed it, which is kind of terrifying. McGee was a chameleon who was able to morph himself into any situation. Finally, Jackson, probably playing the only character I liked, physically, vocally, emotionally, took control of his role.

Unfortunately, as an ensemble, I was not as convinced. This is likely to change over the course of production, but I did not feel they were working as one unit. Yes, every character has different goals, which you could see. I just do not feel like there was much chemistry between the actors at times. For example, although I could often see the lust Kath and Ed felt towards Sloane when they were talking to each other, somehow it felt forced when they were actually with the character. The relationship I did believe all of the time however was the hatred and fear between Ed and Sloane. Due to the nature of the show, maybe this disconnect was purposeful.

Ultimately, my issues with the play lie in the play itself. I do not personally see the appeal for a 21st century audience, but audience members seemed to laugh and enjoy it. Director Stephen Jarrett took on the daunting task of creating such a tricky piece of theater. It is crude and off-center, but also satirical and political. He definitely struck a balance that fell into an astounding series of events.

I would be amiss to not mention the talented production team. I loved Giorgos Tsappas's kitschy 60s set covered in random knick-knacks. Then there was the brilliant costume design of Erik Teague. He had an eye for story when he created these pieces and it showed. The all-leather chauffeur suit that Sloane wear's for Ed, if anything illustrates the over-the-top nature of the play.

ENTERTAINING MR SLOAN is being performed at the Writer's Center in Bethesda, Maryland. For tickets order online.

The play runs about 2 hours and 15 minutes, with one intermission.