That analogy, and various other references, set the show in England, and the challenge of the accents was well met in most cases. The "theatre" situation (these are actors/actresses/playwright) with its built-in pretense, is another analogy for questioning what is "real." Trust, compromise, disillusionment, forgiveness...knowing and being known... I see this play, set in 1982, as part of the aftermath of the "free love" 60s/70s when we realized the pitfalls of trying to be that "free."
Director Leo Poroshin has tackled a big challenge with this show and most of it works well. The set and lighting are beautiful, but perhaps too realistic, requiring many scene changes that add to the playing time, despite their efficiency. Tod Humphrey and Angharad McGaughey are at the center of the multiply crossed affairs/commitments/bargains(?) and both do an excellent job of bringing us with them. Kudos also to Adam Bright, Joseph Mull, Amelia Rogocka and Charlotte Ruppert, all good as the other spouses/daughter/actor complicators of this tangle of love, both real and unreal.
One weekend left of this fascinating show at Riverwalk's Black Box, Fri/Sat at 8pm and Sun at 2pm through the 13th. $12/$10
482-5700 for reservations, which assure admission (there are only 80 seats) though it's open seating. Get there early for best selection. www.riverwalktheatre.com