by Guest Reviewer T.E. Klunzinger
“Some o’ them chicks, they like this Jane Austen, but me, I don’t know what the big deal is.” Which kind of sums up my position (as other writers don’t like Shakespeare). Nevertheless, the current version of this classic favorite, now on view for just two more nights at MSU’s Summer Circle Theatre, is an engaging delight from beginning to end.
As director Dan Smith notes, “Kate Hamill’s innovative adaptation … uses a group of Gossips as a Greek chorus … I thought it would be fun to incorporate a beach party aesthetic.” But while there are sunglasses among the colorful costumes, the 19th Century dialogue clearly anchors the action in the English countryside and London, playing up the overarching contemporary concerns of position, presumed engagements and above all, money.
The whole playing style is decidedly mannered, but it works deliciously and this production is as light and frothy as the clouds against the blue sky which are on constant view.
As you may know, the story centers on the Dashwood sisters, with sensible Elinor (Karen Vance) seemingly much more grounded in logic than the impetuous Marianne (Kathryn Stahl). With their father recently deceased, both should marry for money; Elinor resists the awkward suitor Edward Ferrars (Greg Hunter) but Marianne pretty much throws herself at the feckless hunk John Willoughby (Curran Jacobs). And romantic complications ensue.
Much of the fun comes from watching the gender-bending group of Gossips and (often doubled) supporting characters. Standouts in this respect are Max Sanders, DJ Shafer and Sam Carter – it would be a spoiler to discuss whom they play.
Again, just two more performances of this show at 8:00 on Friday and Saturday, with the family musical “Love and Other Junk” at 6:30 and the dark comedy “Smudge” starting (effectively) at 10:30, so it will be a late evening if you’re intending to see all three at one sitting.
More info at
http://theatre.msu.edu/productions/summer-circle-theatre