Archive for 10. October 2010

ROUND AND ROUND IT GOES

ROUND AND ROUND IT GOES

F. J. Hartland

Set in Vienna in 1900 La Ronde by Arthur Schnitzler examines the circles of human sexuality. 

Famous for its structure, in the first scene A has sex with B.  Next B has sex with C.  Then C has sex with D and so on…

The REP at the Pittsburgh Playhouse gives the play a very stylish and beautiful production under the direction of Robin Walsh.

The production begins with a lively dance (choreographed by David Vinski) that fills the playing area (and also clues the audience in to the upcoming circular events of the play).

The cast is quite strong—with the possible exception of weak link Christopher Spare as the Count.  Stand-outs include Richard Keitel as the Husband, Mallory Campbell as the delightful Sweet Young Thing and a very funny Robyne Parrish going over-the-top as the flamboyant Actress.

Director Walsh could tighten up some of the slower scenes (like the last one), but overall she has done a fine job making this classic palatable for modern-day audiences.

The visual aspects of La Ronde are glorious. 

Stephanie Mayer-Staley’s set makes the most of the small Studio Theatre space.  Doors are hidden in the walls, the center section rotates and various chandeliers are lowered to indicate a change of space.  Golden gilded mirrors fill the walls of the space.  More gilding decorates the ceiling.

The stage crew moves quickly to change props and re-arrange furniture; Walsh has also choreographed cast members to appear making other wise tedious set changes entertaining.

Scott Weston’s lighting properly sets the mood and also contains some revolving effects in the style of old-fashioned lights.

The turn-of-the-century costumes by Michael Montgomery are detailed and stunning.  Done in beiges and light pastels, both the men and women are dressed to perfection—including undergarments—which we see a great deal of in La Ronde.

Overall, it is a beautiful production…if only it moved along at a slightly quicker pace.

Seating in the Studio Theatre is limited, so reservations are an excellent idea.

La Ronde continues through October 24.

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