American Tales
There is a summer full of Stage Art at the Deaf West Theatre as Antaeus once again presents its annual ClassicsFest, a series of classical plays in varying states of completion. The first offering of the season is the full production of "American Tales," which comprises two one-act musicals set in the "Gilded Age" of the 1890s,using classic and rarely told stories inspired by Mark Twain and Herman Melville.
In "The Loves of Alonzo Fitz Clarence and Rosannah Ethelton," we witness a man and a woman falling in love over the newly invented telephone. Alonzo is tricked by a man posing to be an inventor, but in reality it is his rival for the affections of Rosannah. Having never met in person, Alonzo must find her, using his own mental image of what she looks like, which in no way matches reality. He travels all across America to finally meet his love.
The second act is called "Bartlby the Scrivener." The story is set in a lawyer's office, where a taciturn clerk decides not to do any of his chores by simply stating only, "I'd prefer not to," which affects the lawyer, his fellow clerks, and the location of the office.
Although not to my taste, "American Tales" was quite a delectable piece of theatre (produced by Laura Hill). The dulcet music, co-directed by Steven Ladd Jones and Billy Thompson, perfectly depicts the time period. Directors Kay Cole and Thor Steingraber tackle moving the story along with rapid pacing, making sure the audience's eyes are always moving.
Peter Van Norden (Lawyer) is a delight. With each and every golden moment, Van Noorden inhabits the comic timing of Zero Mostel.
The remainder of the cast works well as an ensemble throwing the torch to one another in a bouquet of funny and (even more so) charming moments.
For years, Antaeus has been a very well respected theatre company and they obviously work very hard to continue their tradition of excellence. Before the performance begins, they encourage the audience to stand and sing the National Anthem. It's an interesting idea relating to the theme, but, unnecessary. Especially as embarrassing as it was for half the audience to end it with the mumble of "PLAY BALL!" It just doesn't work with this production the way it would with, say, a political spoof or possibly even "Bleacher Bums."
On a Grading Scale A-
For more information: www.antaeus.org