HOWLING IN THE WOODS

F. J. Hartland

Lapland after World War II is the setting for The Howling Miller, a world premiere being presented by Quantum Theatre at the Frick Park Environmental Center.

Written by Quantum’s Artistic Director Karla Boos and the play’s director Peter Duschenes, the play is adapted from the novel by Arto Paasilinnia and looks at the effect a newcomer has on a small town in northernmost Finland.

Sadly, it seems like Boos and Duschenes don’t know what kind of play they’ve written.  Some scenes play as stark reality…others like a scene from a children’s play.  Is it a comedy…a psychological exploration…a drama?  Overall, it lacks focus.  Each scene seems to be written for a different genre.  It leaves the viewer confused and wondering what exactly are we to get from The Howling Miller.

And while Duschenes directs the opening of the show with excellent pace, it begins to drag before Act One is over.

The cast is not to blame.  They are excellent.

Lithe Tristan Farmer gives an athletic, acrobatic performance as the newcomer.  He runs, leaps, bounds, jumps, does cartwheels and rides a bicycle.  And he is also full of charm and sex appeal.  His character might be insane…but he is also sweet and lovable.  The fluidity of his movement and his amazing balance are amazing to witness.

Melinda Helfrich is hysterically funny and sweet as the overzealous 4-H Director who firmly believes in the power of vegetable gardens.

Hats off to the delightful ensemble cast (John Gresh Robert Haley, Jason McCune, Andy Place and Mark Conway Thompson) who brilliantly play multiple roles—everything from townspeople to mental patients to reindeer (yes, you read that right.  Reindeer.)  Unfortunately, the program only lists one character for each actor, so it takes some time and mental maneuvering to figure out who is who.

The set by Tony Ferrari blends in beautifully with the outdoor location of The Howling Miller.  Herman Pearl’s strategic sound design makes a significant contribution in creating the feel of each scene.

Other local theatres could take notes on Quantum’s front-of-house.  Everyone from box office to ushers to parking lot attendants could not be more kind, gracious and helpful.

On the other hand, Quantum takes the prize for the most uncomfortable seating.  Tiny folding chairs are crammed too close together on platforms that are too small to allow one to pass if anyone else is sitting in a row.  The stairs are uneven…and quite steep.  After being wedged in for the first act, I was in such pain that I could not return for Act Two.  In fact, I was still smarting when I got out of bed this morning.

And it’s not a good sign that I haven’t spent a moment since wondering how it all ends.

The Howling Miller continues through August 22.