By Eldon B. Randall
The Children, now playing at the Good Company Theatre in Ogden, Utah, first made its acclaimed run in London, at the Royal Court Theatre. The US production opened at the Samuel J. Friedman Theater with the heralded original UK cast. The story, written by Lucy Kirkwood, takes place in a remote cottage on the lonely British coast, in which a couple of retired nuclear engineers are living a very quiet life of yoga and yogurt. Outside, the world is in utter chaos following a devastating series of events. When an old friend turns up at their door, they’re shocked to discover the real reason for her visit.
GCT Producer Alicia Washington explains that she “fell in love” with the script’s direction. It has a “sense of timeliness and immediacy” as well as being “meaty and contemporary for older actors”.
The direction of Nicole Finney is admirable. With only three characters to work with, the movement and blocking are impressive. The staff and technical crew make this show complete.
When I entered the small intimate theater, I was greeted with the calming and peaceful sounds of waves beating upon the shore and the melancholic cry of ocean fowl. The set design, by Taylor Knuth, is a simple kitchen colored in greys and muted tones—a very comfy and cozy atmosphere.
All of this serenity came crashing down with sounds of whaling sirens. Warning of imminent danger; an earthquake followed by the pounding of a tidal wave and all goes dark. A scenario played out many times in the past and possibly the future.
As the lights come up, we are greeted with Rose, played by Camille Van Wagoner. Suitcases in hand and her nose bleeding, Rose is one of the physicists responsible for the building of the play’s nuclear power plant located on the coast. Van Wagoner is brilliant in her portrayal of Rose. Her rollercoaster of emotions and subtle play between the other characters is impressive.
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The conversation between Rose and Hazel is cordial yet uncomfortable, bantering about the children and life in general. It takes a serious turn as we learn about what happened with the Tsunami and nuclear meltdown. This catastrophe becomes the centerpiece of the play.
Hazel’s husband Robin, marvelously played by Kevin Ireland, comes across as very optimistic, announcing that one needs to face life head on. He is a jokester of sorts, very lovable and a tease.
All of the good feelings erode away, like the English shore, as we discover the past relationships of each character and the true reason for Rose’s appearance.
The cohesive performance between the three actors is outstanding. You wouldn’t have known that this was their preview night—it had the polish of a show well into its run.
As Good Company Theatre’s The Children ended, I was left wondering what sort of legacy am I leaving for my children and their children? What kind of world are we leaving for the next generations to come? Are we going to be the reason for the beginning of the end? Hazel tells us, “The definition of madness is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting the results to be different.”
Good Company Theatre presents The Children by Lucy Kirkwood
Good Company Theatre, 2404 Wall Ave, Ogden, Utah 84401
April 26-May 12. Friday-Saturday 8 PM, Sunday 4:00 PM. There are two shows on Saturday, May 4, with the matinee at 4 PM. There is a special ASL showing on Saturday, May 11
Tickets: $20.
The show runs approximately 90 minutes with no intermission. This show is not recommended for children. Adult language and themes.
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