The incomparable James Houska fully inhabits Arthur, the repressed old Polish hippie donut shop owner, challenged and encouraged by his optimistic and promising, but threatened, young African American employee, well played by Riverwalk newcomer Daniel Bonner. Doak Bloss is a delightfully irascible Russian trying to buy Arthur's shop; his later scene offers quite a transformation.
Erin Hoffman is touching as the lady cop shyly trying to knock on the emotional door of the taciturn Arthur. Her partner, trekkie black cop Ndegwa McCloud provides his unique contrast and perspective. Eve Davidson offers off-the-wagon wisdom as "Lady" (short for Bag Lady?) Angela Dawe is surprisingly frightening as Luther Flynn and Jeff Magnuson smugly threatening as her backup. (Kudos to Ian Griffin, Fight Choreographer.) Grant Jason is perfect as Doak's newly immigrated "protection" in the final scene.
Tonight's performance was a fundraiser for the Kristine Thatcher fund, full of her friends and fans, helping fill the "donut hole" in her insurance as she fights ovarian cancer. More info at www.ktfund.org
Superior Donuts runs through February 26
www.riverwalktheatre.com