Come Back, Little Sheba

William Inge's 1950's expose on alcoholism and the family is playing at the Manhattan Theater Company this winter. I must say, a bit stale and dated, for sure. I'm not a William Inge expert, but recalling Bus Stop I seem to remember quite a bit of the same feel - lots of dialogue, slow moving story, but a good one nonetheless.

One thing makes this one worthwhile - S. Epetha Merkerson. She plays Lola - the main character of the story who never leaves the stage. The drama is played out in her living room and kitchen for 2 hours. The good, the bad, and the ugly (yes, there's some of each) are laid out in front of us as the story is told... and unfolds.

A great supporting cast all around - including special mention of my neighbor (Chad Hoeppner) who plays Bruce - the fiance. Kudos, Chad!

There are a few other up and coming young folks adding a little eye candy - Brian Smith (Turk) is as gorgeous and talented with his shirt on as with it off (*sigh*). Matthew Williamson plays the milkman - who visits twice - A strapping young man he is.... And let's not forget the postman - he drops in for Act I and we see him just at the end of Act II delivering the letter he promised.

Perhaps Lola will read that letter someday and we'll get to find out what he has to say. Well, for now, wander on over to the Biltmore Theater to catch a gem.

Butley

Ben Butley -- Meet Virginia Woolf. The mind games, the booze, the deep seated acrimony... sardonic wit, cut-to-the-bone sarcasm, bitter laughter, but most of all the internal hate, or shame, or desire?! Subtext. Keyword. It's all about what is said indirectly, or, "point-in-fact", not said at all. Is he gay? Or was it all just speaking figuratively. One thing for sure, he's happiest when others are broken down - or is he?



After the Odd Couple, I had mixed expectations about seeing Nathan Lane again... Worried it would be Bialistock and Bloom all over again (and again). Well, sir - not tonight. Nathan gave a top notch performance. Deep. Emotional. You left feeling sorry for Ben Butley. But oh, what a ride along the way. He just may have met his match with his latest conquest. Then again, can you really call it a conquest any longer.... Virginia - you just might have met your match!