What I liked
Robert MacRae’s writing is incredibly tongue-in-cheek comedy, with an understanding-despite being as stated in script “a man”, or in this case “wizard”- captures a clever rhetoric on sexism and legality of theatre. The jokes had the weight that paid homage to the style of Beckett while also calling him out from beyond the grave.
Yet while the writing was amazing, it couldn’t honestly have shined without the chemistry that Newman & Gutzmerson brought to the characters on stage. They bounced off of each other in such a natural way, an audience member would readily believe it was thought up in the brain cranial right then and there. A special call out to the moments with the Stage Manager/Lawyer/Boy actor, which still felt natural to watch all the way through. (Full credit to O’Connor for that incredibly confusing monologue. How they didn’t crack once while the shenanigans ensued behind them, I will never know.)
What I didn't like
I wish it was longer. I wanted more. And when they called for an “intermission” my first thought was, “okay, fifteen and we’re back at it”. Disappointed it ended at all.
My overall impression
A play for anyone whose performed, produced, or loves theatre. Witty dialogue, tactful subject matter, and hilarious characters that is both a tribute and a moral compass to Beckett thought pieces.
There is nothing to prevent me from recommending this show to anybody willing to listen. The small moments, and the big gave a treat for the theatre lover in me.
