What I liked
The irony of this truly realistic drama is that these are dramatic characters, from familiar plays, (Shakespeare’s “King Lear” and Arthur Miller’s “Death of a Salesman”), yet we are pulled in to their lives as if both were once real, sentient human beings. Leon Russum is magnificent as King Lear and brings out the arrogance as well as the crushing vulnerability of the maddened king. Bruno Oliver makes a truly persuasive Willy Loman who, while still full of pride and bluster, after his suicide comes to face the illusions that drove him to a false glory. At only 60 minutes these two performers brought both of their literary characters to life and made plausible the friendship across generations that connected them. The addition of other known characters – Cordelia, Linda Loman, Biff and Happy, cruel sisters Goneril and Regan – helped to dramatize the conflict. Being familiar with both plays helped me to enjoy the confrontations and accept the resolution, because this play works on its own integrity. Bravo to playwright Kate Schwartz and director Scott Leggett.
What I didn't like
My only cavil is that, unlike the two principals, the other fine actors often spoke so low that even I, who have acute hearing, missed most of their dialogue. (In a large space you have to project!)
My overall impression
Will meats Willy in this intriguing and dynamic play where two fabulous actors, playing theatrical icons who meet after death, wage contest.
