Fucking Menat the Celebration Theatre
Reviewed by
Les Spindle
September 18, 2009
The playwright skillfully interweaves diverse segments inspired by the scenes in "La Ronde." He periodically foreshadows upcoming segments to tellingly reflect on the current episode; then he brings it all together in a deeply affecting conclusion. Following each coupling between men, one character moves on to a sexual escapade with someone else. The play grows progressively richer as the universality of the characters' emotional needs becomes more apparent, despite the vast differences in their circumstances and stations in life. The characters include a young hustler (Brian Dare), a closeted soldier in uniform (Johnny Kostrey), a graduate student serving as a tutor (Mike Ciriaco), a frisky college kid (Michael Rachlis), a middle-aged professional man (Sean Galuszka) and his lover (David Pevsner), a porn star (Jeff Olson), a pretentious playwright (A.J. Tannen), a famous movie star (Chad Borden), and a bisexual television journalist (Gregory Franklin). The actors deliver sensitive and finely etched portrayals. The contributions of Olson, Galuszka, and Dare are particularly poignant. Franklin, Kostrey, and Pevsner excel as highly conflicted souls. Borden is superb as perhaps the most self-serving character, while deftly sidestepping contemptibility. Ciriaco, Rachlis, and Tannen offer considerable charm, as well as comic relief. Kudos to Remsberg and company for pulling off such an eloquent U.S. premiere of this outstanding new play, among the most rewarding gay-themed works within memory. Presented by and at the Celebration Theatre, 7051B Santa Monica Blvd., Hollywood. Sept. 11-Oct. 25. Thurs.-Sat., 8 p.m.; Sun., 3 p.m. (323) 957-1884. www.celebrationtheatre.com. |
||
More LA Theatre Reviews
LA Review: 'Sideways the Play'
In “Sideways The Play,” at Ruskin Group Theatre, swilling with overgrown boys in wine country is enjoyable, but we’r... More »
ADVERTISEMENT
Sponsors
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Back Stage Video
