BROOKFIELD - The Brookfield Theater for the Arts rendition of Peter Morgan's Frost/Nixon is a revelation on the science of spin and the extraction of truth. This gently paced production, with performances continuing for two additional weekends, unravels the mysterious mindset of Richard Nixon under the ultimately careful dissection of his psyche by talk show host David Frost.

Opening near the end of his tenure as President, Richard Millhouse Nixon (played by Will Jeffries) is defiant and verbose in his explanation of the actions he took following the break-in at the Watergate Hotel. His control of information and determination to cover it up failed. Prior to impeachment proceedings, he quit.

Scoring an exorbitantly expensive interview, and betting his career on it, David Frost (Kevin Sosbe) attempts to secure a confession, and ultimately an apology, from the former statesman. David is coached and pressured by the likes of James Reston, Jr (Rick Haylon), John Birt (Nick Kaye) and Bob Zelnick (Al Bhatt).

They comprise Team Frost, imploring him to pin the former President down and take control of the space. Frost's girlfriend, Caroline Cushing (Leigh Carusone Katz), offers a soothing presence.

Under the watchful eyes of James Brennan (Fred Rueck), the sullied President lumbers on, confounding his opponent. The hefty price paid for the interviews, as negotiated by "Swifty" Lazar (Ron Malyska), seems a huge waste. And yet, there is a wounded man here and he does have something important to say, when ready.

The supporting cast fills various roles, including Roberto Perez as Nixon's manservant Manolo, along with Michele Leigh, Amy Soderquist, Jose Roman, Ian Arbues, Rachel Ames, Paul Landman, and Adam Landana.

During many set changes, the action is punctuated with 1970s-era commercials, which charmed the audience during one recent performance. The use of three cameras to project closeups during the interviews lends seriousness and intimacy. The expressions on Nixon's face were priceless.

The performance by Will Jeffries is a stunner. From the moment he steps on stage he is transformed. His portrayal is thoughtful, educated, committed, and solid. He is utterly convincing.

This play is carried by the performer in this role and Mr Jeffries does his job and then some.

As his foil, Kevin Sosbe expertly reads his adversary and teases out the clincher that tells the American people what they want to hear, while cementing Frost's professional future.

The remainder of the cast is very good. They are earnest and completely invested in their portrayals. They each represent their characters well, with energy and enthusiasm.

These were heady days in politics. The country was glued to their televisions. The truth mattered, outcomes mattered, and justice was meant for all.

Frost/Nixon tells a fascinating story of a troubled man in a troubling time. The opening night audience loved it. Tune in for the interview of a lifetime.

TBTA's production continues to Saturday, September 23. Curtain is Friday and Saturday at 8, and Sunday, September 17, at 2 pm.

Tickets are $20 adults, $15 students, and available by calling 203-775-0023 or visiting brookfieldtheatre.org.

Brookfield Theatre for the Arts is at 184 Whisconier Road (Route 25, behind Brookfield Library) in Brookfield Center.

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