BROOKFIELD -  In fast paced clipped dialogue, three talented actors deliver fine performances in the final production of the season at The Brookfield Theater for the Arts: David Mamet's Speed-the-Plow, an intense drama about the inner workings of film production.

With the iconic HOLLYWOOD sign shining in the background window, three people strive and connive, no matter what they have to sacrifice, to get their movie made.

Bob Gould has been promoted.  He is now able to green-light a film and has direct access to the head of the studio to pitch projects. He is a Hollywood big shot played by Peter Lerman.

His longtime collaborator and subordinate, Charlie Fox, is played by Aaron Kaplan. Charlie has been approached by an A-list Hollywood star to have his next movie done at the Gould/Fox studio.  The two are beyond ecstatic. This kind of windfall does not happen every day in Hollywood.

They gleefully count their chickens before they hatch. Put off until the next morning to get the go-ahead from the studio chief, they part ways ready to celebrate their amazingly good fortune.

In walks temp secretary Karen (played by Dianna Waller), who has a different vision and passion as she inserts herself into the dynamic between the two old-timers and messes with their plans.

This piece moves quickly, requiring tight delivery of dialogue and busy blocking to convey urgency and excitement. According to Mr Gould, "films like this make it all worthwhile" after years of doing "what people want from me, so everything becomes a task." They are pumped. Then there is Karen.

Peter Lerman is quite capable as Bob Gould. His physical presence and appearance are perfectly suited to his character, as is his stunning speaking voice.

Aaron Kaplan, a David Mamet regular and an excellent actor, is superb. He maintains an antsy energy and drive which are relentless. He is determined, and his enthusiasm, fear and fury are beautifully played.

The two lead actors demonstrate companionship, ambition and respect beautifully, until....

The duplicitous Karen is wonderfully portrayed by Dianna Waller, who gives a performance that is both genuine and perplexed. A fine actor, Waller portrays a woman who believes in the message of her mission.

Under the experienced direction of John Schwanke, Brookfield's presentation of Speed-the-Plow delivers an emotional punch as well as humor. There are plenty of laughs.

Mr Schwanke has a long and successful history of set design and construction. He uses simplicity in this effort. His design choices amplify the recent timing of Mr Gould's promotion and new found power.

Like all Mamet pieces, strong language is used frequently and well placed. This is a terrific peek into the dog-eat-dog business of movie making. The characters are palpably real. This is exceptionally well done, thoroughly enjoyable theater with some fabulous performances. Catch it while you can.

Performances continue weekends through November 19. Curtain is Friday and Saturday evenings at 8 pm. There is also a matinee planned for Sunday, November 13, at 2 pm.

The Brookfield Theatre for the Arts is at 184 Whisconier Road. The theater opens one hour before show time, and refreshments are available.

Tickets are $20 for adults, and $15 for children, although parents should note that the theater is suggesting this play for ages 12 and up.

Additional information and tickets are available by calling 203-775-0023 or visiting brookfieldtheatre.org.

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