|
The Real Thing
By Tom Stoppard
Directed by James Bohnen
Produced by Remy Bumppo think theatre
At Victory Gardens Greenhouse Theater
2257 N. Lincoln
Chicago, IL
Call 773-871-3000, tickets $35 - $40
Wednesdays through Saturdays at 7:30 PM
Sundays at 2:30 PM
Special Wednesday matinees at 2 PM Nov 29 & Dec 13
Dec 31 there is a 2:30 PM and a 7 PM performance
Running time is 2 hours, 30 minutes with intermission
Through January 7, 2007
The Real Thing is, indeed the real thing—a marvelously sharp-witted play
Remy Bumppo Theatre Company has emerged as one of the premiere Chicago Equity theatre troupes. Their work features plays by the great modern playwrights performed by “A” list Equity actors directed mostly by James Bohnen, one of the most intelligent directors working today. The results of this formula is a mounting body of terrific work and their latest work is a gem: Tom Stoppard’s 1982, The Real Thing only adds to that tradition. Remy Bumppo’s The Real Thing is one of the finest plays of the year. The potent combination of Stoppard’s sharp wit and full characterization and Nick Sandys’ outstanding performance produced a truly memorable evening of theatre. I loved this smart, funny play.
The Real Thing is the refreshing innovative piece about love and marriage and about what the real thing actually is. The thin line between make believe and reality and the passion for love, especially the love of language is paramount here. Henry (Nick Sandys), a playwright (and Stoppard’s alter-ego) is famous for witty plays about love and deception. Writing about and experiencing betrayal are not the same when Henry’s life begins to resemble his art. Using several clever plot twists, including a play-within-a-play that featured several bitingly witty monologues on love, words and the nature of a worthy play, The Real Thing is sweet candy to those of us (include me) who cherish language and the use of words. Stoppard’s a wordsmith of the first order. It is also among his most personal works showing his emotional side.
“And though the play is painfully insightful and easily seen as a colorful window into his own life, it carries a maturity of thought, action, and intent that only a great playwright can achieve,” stated Peter Davis, Remy Bumppo’s dramaturg.
He goes on to observe: “The Real Thing is often discussed as a play about love, eternal love, true love, the nature of jealousy, and the power of compassion in the face of deep pain. Doubtless this is why so many consider this one of Stoppard’s best plays.” Stoppard’s use of the debate formula where hilarious repartee deliciously carries his themes forward was a pleasure to witness in the hands of thus wonderful cast.
From Sean Fortunato’s stinging Max to Anne Fogarity’s charming Charlotte to Kareem Bandealy’s engaging Billy to Keith Gallagher’s crude Brodie, the cast echoes Stoppard’s rich dialogue deftly. I especially like the work of Linda Gillum as Annie and the terrific tour de force effort of Nick Sandys as Henry. This is the finest work from Sandys as he captures the essence of the true romantic and vulnerability of the playwright. Sandys’ elocution does Stoppard’s rapier wit justice in his award-winning caliber performance. This funny play has intelligent plot twists and fully developed characters that have much to say about love and marriage. This show will have you talking to your significant other about the nature of love as you leave the theatre. What’s wrong with that?
It is hard to imagine a more satisfying theatrical event than seeing The Real Thing. It is a gem from a genius wordsmith. You’ll love this sparkling play.
Highly Recommended
Tom Williams
Tom99@chicagocritic.com
Talk Theatre in Chicago podcast
Date Reviewed: November 19, 2006
Jeff Recommended
|
