By Holly Gould
Pinnacle Acting Company’s production of Mauritius at the Dumke Student Blackbox Theater in Salt Lake City Is a gripping tale all about philately. What’s that, you say? It is the thrilling world of Stamp Collecting. Mauritius by Theresa Rebeck premiered on Broadway for a quick run just short of two months at the Biltmore Theater. In this version directed by Jared Larkin, the intimate setting and simple, but effective scenery (also designed by Larkin) let the company lead us on an unexpected emotional journey through one family’s unique story.
The story focuses on half-sisters Jackie (Suni Gigliotti) and Mary (Lindsay Higbee) who are figuring out life after the passing of their mother, and how to handle the aftermath of a lifetime of bad decisions. Jackie finds hope in what may be a valuable stamp collection passed down from their grandfather. They soon find the great lengths that many in the business will go to obtain the perfect addition to their collections.
Gigliotti does a fantastic job of telling Jackie’s story, and keeps us on our toes by performing emotional cartwheels throughout her performance. Her character is broken yet capable as she navigates finding the value of the family’s treasured book of stamps, while avoiding the pitfalls of those who would take advantage of her. We can vividly feel her complicated grief while she still shows us grit, determination, and strength, and cheer for her to find the courage to claim what she deserves.
Stamp Shop owner Philip is played by Nicholas Dunn who uses sharp wit and intellect and matches well with the other characters. His dry humor is expertly delivered, and he is quite skilled at acting as the moral compass of the show. He shows clearly the pain from experiences past that lead well into a more guarded character.
Phillip’s mysterious associate Dennis is perfectly portrayed by Max Huftalin. Dennis is a masterful emotional manipulator as he is the one to discover just how valuable Jackie’s collection could be. Huftalin plays the character boldly and with confidence. He is unapologetic in his efforts and is consistently perfect with his timing. He offers much comic relief in the show, yet also delivers thoughtful and poignant lines with as much ease.
Higbee’s Mary is emotionally distant from the family pain and drama, which lets her character’s selfish motives shine through brilliantly. Again, things are not as they appear to be as she shows a sweet and sisterly side that masks her true intentions as she manipulates Jackie.
Matt Whittaker rounds out the cast with his menacing portrayal of Sterling, a collector who tends to get what he wants at any cost. This rough character is surprisingly obsessed with stamps, and we can physically feel his desire to have them as he delivers heartfelt monologues. Equally felt is the fear that occurs when he is in danger of not obtaining what he desires.
This cast is a joy to see together. The interplay between each character is perfection. Peppery dialogue is precise and clearly spoken. Moments of grief, elation, suspense, and fear are well balanced with witty one-liners that keep the audience completely involved in a game of emotional ping pong.
Mauritius is a surprisingly emotional story about stamp collecting with many plot twists and turns that will keep you on the edge of your seat to the end. I was so captivated that I felt every emotion physically as the story unfolded, and your attention will be captured right up to the very satisfying end. The Pinnacle Acting Company tells this gripping story perfectly at the Dumke Student Blackbox Theater in Salt Lake City. With plenty of strong language and some intense moments of graphic violence, this show is recommended for audiences ages 16 and up.
Pinnacle Acting Company presents Mauritius by Theresa Rebeck.
Dumke Student Blackbox Theater, 1700 S 1300 E, Salt Lake City, UT 84105
January 2-4, 10-11, 17-18, 2020 7:30 PM, Matinee January 18, 2:00 PM
Tickets: $12-18
Contact: 801-810-5793
Pinnacle Acting Company Facebook Page
Mauritius Facebook Event
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