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Talking It Over
Based in the novel by Julian Barnes
Adapted by Peter Greenberg
Directed by Dorothy Milne
At Lifeline Theatre
6912 N. Glenwood Ave.
Chicago, IL
Call 773-761-4477, tickets $25 (rush tickets, ˝ before the show $15)
Fridays at 7:30 pm
Saturdays at 4 & 8 pm
Sundays at 4 pm
Running time is 2 hours with intermission
Through March 23, 2008
Intriguing tale of three-some unfolds in Talking It Over
British novelist Julian Barnes’ Talking It Over utilizes a narrative approach that has each character speaking directing to the reader as if you were a counselor. Adaptor Peter Greenberg uses the same format as he has each character speak directly to the audience for most of the play. This had mixed results in that it became tedious as it negated action. However, it does emphasize how each character, when telling their side of a story, does put a unique personal spin that tends to justify or rationalize their actions. No one takes responsibility for the events that unfold.
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When steady, nerdy Stuart (the likable John Ferrick) and his obnoxious best pal, Oliver (Chris Hainsworth) lament their lack of female companionship, Oliver usually finds the girls for both. One night, Stuart finds on his own a plain, artistic and quiet woman, Gillian (Elise Kauzlaric) at a singles event. They date and quickly fall in love. Oliver becomes the third wheel as he loyally supports Stuart in his marriage. The three are friends.
However, Oliver, ever the egocentric self-centered fool, soon after the marriage decides that he is in love with Gillian. The love triangle slowly unfolds in a dark comedy. Barnes has penned a fresh take on friendship, loyalty and love. He is both cynical, post-modern and rational. He understands that married women can’t have unmarried male friends without eventually leading to an affair.
Stuart is the steady banker, Gillian is the introverted artist. Gillian never thought she’d find a man. Now she has an adoring husband and an admiring friend. The result is a story that is plausible, honest and engaging. Each character refuses to take the blame for the consequences of their actions. The plots twists make this a most unpredictable play. The motivations of each character are nuanced and subtle. Without giving away too much, let me state that each character reveals their true nature when faced with trauma.
The acting is first rate with John Ferrick and Chris Hainsworth dominating. Elise Kauzlaric is subtle and eerie while Ann Wakefield as the mother and the landlady is effective. Katie McLean is a hoot as Val, Stuart’s cynically outspoken friend.
This minimal set design by Andre LaSalle features large paintings on canvass depicting the various moods. Talking It Over is smart, different and worth your time.
Recommended
Tom Williams
Tom99@chicagocritic.com for comments
Talk Theatre in Chicago podcast
Date reviewed: February 11, 2008
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