Date: Fri 19-Feb-1999

Publication: Bee

Author: CAROLL

Quick Words:

Absent-Friends-theatre

Full Text:

(rev "Absent Friends" @Square One)

THEATRE REVIEW: Right On The Pulse Of English Humor

By June April

STRATFORD -- The witty, idiosyncratic humor that typifies playwright Alan

Ayckbourn's plays is experienced once again in Absent Friends , currently at

Square One Theatre. The storyline explores the relationships of friends

getting together for that quaint English tradition of tea time, to show

support for one of their companions whose fiancee was recently drowned.

What unravels is the real feeling between the couples, and the optimistic

slant of the bereaved.

Playing characters with a proper and consistent English accent is always a

challenge. In Stratford it was only partially accomplished by some of the

actors, and masterfully mouthed by others. Particularly outstanding in his

portrayal was Daniel John Kelly, as the wonderfully sensitive and positive

grieving gentleman. It is he who salves the wounds of his peers, and

sensitively opens their eyes to what is to be valued in life.

Though often monosyllabic, Newtown resident Leigh Griswold, as the sexually

active Evelyn, marvelously portrays a haughty, long-suffering wife and mother.

Her husband's comment, "Since she has no sense of humor... I never have to try

to cheer her up...," tersely sums up their marriage.

Playing Evelyn's neurotic husband John, who is constantly and repetitively

moving one part or another of his body, Mark Frattaroli does a thumbs-up

"Eveready Bunny." His accent, however, is not as consistent as his action.

Michelle Courvais does a credible characterization of the frustrated, angry

Diana, who knows her husband Paul is having an affair with the attractive,

stoic Evelyn, but has no proof.

As a successful, philandering Paul, Pat Leo was not at his best. His accent

was more off than on. He often seemed stiff, ill-at-ease and somewhat

excessive in his responses.

The actress Wendy Long does a delicious rendition of the cooing,

over-solicitous, good natured friend who always means well, but tends to

bungle up. Her character adds the perfect humorous touch to those situations

pregnant with potentially depressing statements.

Director Tom Holehan has his finger on the pulse of English humor and timing,

and has once again provided an opportunity for an entertaining evening.

(Playing through Saturday, February 27, Absent Friends, has shows at 8 pm on

Friday and Saturday evenings and at 2 pm for a matinee each Sunday. Tickets

are $14, or $12 seniors and students. Square One is at 2422 Main Street in

Stratford, at the Stratford Theatre; telephone 375-8778.)