By Marnie Thomas
George Bernard Shaw obviously held his own views and opinions, but his point in writing Major Barbara was not to express them. In this classic play, he asks questions. He causes his audience to think, to ponder on subjects such as morality, salvation, poverty and how the perceptions of such play out in the interactions of people and the effects on society. You will undoubtedly leave the theatre thinking about the questions this play asks.
Director Kacey Spadafora keeps the action flowing smoothly onstage. Not necessarily an easy feat in an outdoor venue such as the UVU courtyard amphitheater. Through careful blocking, he has the actors relating to one another in a natural manner. The choice to include a live musician (Paige Porter) assists with the transitions between the various locations.
The opening scenes are like a cross section of the upper echelons of society. I thoroughly enjoyed Lucas Stewart’s portrayal of Stephen, a confused and silly yes man to the machinations of his mother, Lady Undershaft. Katrina Luthi skillfully portrays a mother who makes sure that her son’s views are in line with her’s—whether he knows it or not. She understands her place as a woman in Victorian times—but it is obvious who has the upper hand. Kaitlin Lemon portrays the title character, Major Barbara ,of the Salvation Army, with earnestness, idealism and a bit of naiveté. Her family is alternately amused and confused by her participation in the unconventional religious group. To me, the standout performance came in AJ Taysom’s impressive interpretation of the character paying opposite Barbara. Adolphous Cusins is the fiancé of the Major, and an academic, specializing in Greek. He is quite the philosopher, and an ardent young lover. Taysom’s movements, voice inflections and facial expressions bring to life a witty and eccentric character. Sarah and Charles (Angela Dell, Kristopher Miles) are another engaged couple in the Undershaft family. They look their parts in Javi Ybarra’s attractive and period appropriate designs. Charles is a comical contrast to proper, young Sarah. Rounding out the aristocratic group is the long, lost father, Andrew Undershaft (Brett Griffeth).
At the Salvation Army shelter, we meet a different element of society. The group of unfortunates who take advantage of the services provided there are played by Ash Knowles, Daniel Nell, Wade Johnson and Kaylee McGhghy. They are a downtrodden and weary band who have come for assistance in different waysMale infertility can be treated in the best way through the blood stream that is found online viagra india in the entire body. The Background on Kamagra Kamagra or Sildenafil Citrate (its viagra uk bland name) is one of its kind, being the first noteworthy oral pharmaceutical for ED, which is broadly well known at this point. It is specifically used in the treatment for cheap tadalafil tablets low sex drive as well as erectile dysfunction. Ask your human services supplier any inquiries you may have about how to utilize generic levitra prices . . Playing the system, desperation and even some sincerity have led them to the Salvation Army. Major Barbara and Jenny Hill (Zahra Alnasser) endeavor to bring salvation to the poor and needy. Alnasser plays her part with an innocent and clueless enthusiasm. Ann Thomas plays Mrs. Baines, the head of the local Salvation Army. Her bearing and expression bespeak a no nonsense woman who has come to terms with the realities of life. Her interactions with the rich Andrew Undershaft rock Barbara to her core and cause her to question her faith in the Salvation Army.
The Undershaft family meet together and consider the fate of the family business. There is much discussion and many opposing opinions. Some of the best acting is displayed in the give and take between Andrew Undershaft and Adolphous Cusins. They passionately exchange insults and ideas. This scene is particularly enjoyable and thought provoking.
This first production of the Utah Valley University theatrical season has again shown how UVU is a force to be reckoned with when it comes to the arts. The makeup and hair were carefully styled by designer Melissa Howarth. The above mentioned costumes were exceptional. The spartan set (Scenic Designer Jessie Pusey, Properties Designer Aubrey Jeffries) was effective in its simplicity. All the production staff and crew are to be commended.
It is said that there are no small parts, only small actors. With that in mind, I must mention that Tanner Gillman put a lot into the two parts he played. He did not have a lot of lines, but he had a lot of presence as a household servant and in his part at the cannon factory.
Major Barbara runs from the 9th to the 15th of September, so hurry and see this show. You will laugh and you will think. it will be well worth your time and the small cost of a ticket ($3-$5).
https://www.facebook.com/events/1468952993431819/
0 Comments