Watching
actors transcend memorized conversations and rehearsed behaviors to
face the peril and promise that a great script can provide is not just
thrilling, it’s the greatest purpose of live theatre.
Indeed,
when an actor can lose himself, can break free from fear and
self-awareness, he in turn enables us to abandon our own self-imposed
mental and emotional reservations, to confront the hidden truths that
define our lives. Even with the fluffier forms of performance art, deep
down that’s what we are paying to see: dangerous discovery, from the
vicarious comfort of our padded chairs – that is, when the performers
and company are up to the challenge.
3
Theatre Group is willing and capable, yet again, with subtle, soulful
performances in their west cost premiere of Charles Evered’s “Class.”
Painfully moving and at times intensely funny, this two-person, proudly
Grotowskian production accomplishes more in a tiny black box than
others are capable of, even with their grandiose movable sets, full
spectrum of colored lights and fully-paid twelve-piece orchestra. For
it is there, beneath all the misdirection, that the truth of the human
spirit resides, the spark for which entertainment exists; and when a
company makes that spark their aim, they are capable of creating a
truly powerful fire.
Such
is the case with director Robin Russin’s beautifully crafted sophomore
effort with 3TG. Adroit pacing and refined portrayals from actors Paul
Jacques and Melissa Kirk will surely make this one of the best IE
theatre productions of 2011. The actors’ believable, well-timed
exchanges range from knee-slapping funny to tear-wiping morose and are a
cathartic joy to behold. Jacques, an award-winning
writer/director/producer proves why he deserves such laurels – because
he can step on the stage and bring it. As with his heart-rending turn in
last season’s 3TG production of Evered’s period piece “Celadine,”
Jacques gives a layered, impressively naturalistic performance that puts
him in a near-peerless class of local actors. I love watching this man
work. His shows should be required attendance for his many theatre
students; for in watching Jacques do his thing, they’d be able to write
lengthy dissertations about the power and soul-changing nature of the
art. Moreover, Kirk’s not-so-ditzy starlet-turned-thespian plays well
against Jacques’ burn-out acting coach. Her earnestness humanizes the
character, making her both endearing and intriguing.
This
weekend 3 Theatre's "Class" gives you an opportunity for true
aesthetic sustenance. So please consider your health, and don’t fall
for the glitzy packaging and empty promises that the fast franchises
sling.
LA theater reviews by LA Theater Critic.
LA theater reviews by LA Theater Critic.
