© Suburban Journals of Chicago
photo
at Circle Theater in Forest Park
April 30 - June 8, 2008
written by Matthew Barber
from the novel by Elizabeth Von Arnim
review by Ed Vincent
A metamorphosis from the mundane to the spectacular, Enchanted April, written by Matthew Barber, is an engaging
tale beginning with one woman’s pedestrian life who takes
notice of an ad to rent a castle on the coast of Italy with blooming wisteria. This apparent everyday woman becomes enthralled with the vision of warmth, clear skies, sunshine and some freedom from her regimented husband. Patricia Austin does a charming job of conveying this everyday woman’s soul
to a spirit of adventure. She begins her drama narrating much
of the afore mentioned and proceeding to entrap another
woman with whom she has only a casual relationship, a fellow churchgoer, played by Darci Nalepa.
Within a short period of time we find our quest beginning
to ensnare a motley crew of individuals. All female and all wanting an early Springtime. The casting for this wondrous adventure is right on the money. From the glamouros Lady Caroline, played by Michelle Weissgerber to the curmugenly elder woman, played by Mary Redmon.
The sets and staging of the drama are creative and perfect for the drama. When Circle Theater moives to Oak Park even though the theaters shall be of comparable seating capacities, gettimg to the seats will be less of a challenge.
It was a pleasure seeing Brian Rabinowitz, though it took a moment to recognize him sans facial hair. The Rabinowitz family is filled with a love of the arts and other members of
Brian's family were even in other shows as we reviewed dad.
Brian does a wonderful job as an author, with a wandering eye and lusty desire. Derek Czaplewski, Michael Gonring, and
Terri Lopez, all bring a smile or two to the production, as
Enchanted April is packed with plenty plenty of irony, comedy, and resolution, to make the most dysfunctional families feel
right at home without bringing their therapist.
Get your tickets for Enchanted April.
Enchanted April
April 30 - June 8, 2008
written by Matthew Barber
from the novel by Elizabeth Von Arnim
directed by Bob Knuth*
Dark clouds may gather around the human heart and mind,
and for those who succumb, brighter days may never come. Such is the lesson of Enchanted April, as four English women, whose lives have been thrown into turmoil by war, break free
of their rain-drenched sorrows and oppression for a month
spent in a rented Italian castle. The opportunity for surprise
and redemption awaits each, and the magic of the trip comes to change their lives.
This show has been Jeff Recommended!
Featuring the talents of:
Patricia Austin, Derek Czaplewski, Michael Gonring, Terri Lopez, Darci Nalepa*, Brian Rabinowitz, Mary Redmon, and Michelle Weissgerber
*denotes Circle company member
Showtimes:
half-price previews, April 25, 26, and 29 @ 8:00 pm
opening night: Wednesday, April 30 @ 8:00 pm
Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays @ 8:00 pm
Sundays @ 3:00 pm
Tickets:
$26 for adults
$24 for students and seniors (over 62)
© Suburban Journals of Chicago
published by Suburban Journals of Chicago Inc.
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