Stamford TheatreWorks

Has Another Hit

By June S. April

STAMFORD — Visiting Mr Green is one of those plays that one is happy to have experienced, and then to encourage friends to see for themselves. The very talented playwright Jeff Baron has that skill of creating a show that inherently has fine structure, a wonderful blend of laughter and pathos and subject matter that goes beyond any single culture. His is a star that is on the rise.

The story, which is being produced by Stamford TheatreWorks only through this weekend, is about a relationship between two men. One is an 86-year-old Jewish widower with a minimal education, who once had his own small business. The other is almost the antithesis:  age 29, Harvard-educated, corporate and unmarried. How they met, and then were forced to continue meeting, and  the evolution of their relationship, provides a memorable and poignant story.

The upbeat music that greeted the audience set a positive mood for the play.  The timely effects manufactured by sound designer Christopher Granger were flawless and added to the impact and humor of this wonderful play.

A familiar face to area theatregoers, Frank Savino is a very fine actor.  The range of roles he has played from classic Shakespeare to guest appearances on soaps demonstrate his ease and expertise on the stage, television or film.

Casting director Liz Ortiz-Mackes deserves a round of applause for bringing him to this production. Mr Savino is a great choice for the cantankerous, yet deeply caring Mr Green.

Cody Nickell’s portrayal of Ross Gardiner is sensitive and powerful. As the play progresses, the complexity and pain of the younger man is revealed and the audience can see his growth as a human being.  Jeff Baron has acknowledged that there are autobiographical elements in Ross.

Under the astute direction of Stamford TheatreWorks Artistic Director Steve Karp, Visiting Mr Green stands as one of the finer theatre experiences this season. Every element is there: outstanding acting, polished play, great set and lighting and sound.

It’s a pleasure to be able to recommend this play to audiences.

(Performances continue until May 9 at 200 Strawberry Hill Avenue in Stamford [on the Sacred Heart campus]. Curtain is nightly through Saturday at 8, with matinees Saturday and Sunday at 2.

Tickets range from $20 to $33, with student and senior discounts available. Call 203-359-4414 for details or reservations.)