Suddenly Last Summer, the Tennessee Williams play that became a movie classic, is being performed by The Town Players of Newtown through mid-August.

This is a dark and haunting play about a dysfunctional Southern family who find themselves dealing with the gruesome death of one beloved member whose tendencies placed him in danger.

Mrs Venable, the aging matriarch of this troubled family unit, is superbly portrayed by Laurel Lettieri. This demanding role is verbose and covers a broad emotional spectrum. Ms Lettieri delivers every word with a delicious southern accent that belies the manipulative and fierce woman she plays. This is a strong performance.

For decades, Mrs Venable has traveled every summer with her middle-aged son, whom she adored and idolized, turning a blind eye to his sexual proclivities. This most recent summer, however, he undertook travel with his cousin, Catherine Holly (Molly Brown), who witnessed the tragic events that led to his demise.

Catherine besmirches the families reputation by revealing her version of the events to anyone who will listen. Mrs Venable wants her stopped.

The family gathers in Mrs Venable's southern Louisiana garden, which is so lush and the action so tense, the humidity seems almost steamy. Barbara Disraeli plays Catherine's mother and Tim Brandt is her immature and petulant brother, George.

Catherine is accompanied by Sister Felicity (Jess Rodi) on her visit, as she is considered a risk. Mrs Venable's loyal and nosy servant Miss Foxhill (Linda Seay) attends to her every need.

The purpose of this meeting is to have Catherine examined by Dr Cukrowicz, (Miles Everett), a psychiatrist, to establish the veracity of her claims. Catherine and Mrs Venable are each determined to control the narrative regarding the events of last summer.

This challenging play requires the recounting of the pivotal events to be told rather than seen. Ms Brown does an excellent job of evoking the imagery of the horrific events. As the doctor, Miles Everett maintains a professional attitude and necessary detachment. He is always very good.

Barbara Disraeli and Tim Brandt bring an anxious energy to these events; both characters have much at stake. Linda Seay is solid in her performance of the loyal servant, and Jess Rodi portrays the overbearing nun, Sister Felicity, with authenticity.

The set, designed by Terry Polvay and Brian DeToma is divine; the foliage, wicker furniture, and background create a completely convincing southern garden.

This is a well-rendered production of an American classic. An opportunity to see a Tennessee Williams play always promises a good evening at the theater.

Performances continue Friday and Saturday evenings until August 10 at The Little Theatre, 18 Orchard Hill Road. There are also Sunday matinees on July 29 and August 5 and a special Thursday evening performance on August 9.

Tickets are $22 for the evening performances, $18 for the matinees.

Call 203-270-9144 or visit newtownplayers.org for details or reservations.

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