Like its title, this fast-paced comic drama bursts with color and life, always revealing a little bit more as each petal is exposed to the light. A play within a play within another play, Adam Bock's dramatic exploration of the quality of human kindness and the various "gifts" we give to each another is all set within a small, gay theater company called, appropriately enough, The Flowers. This premiere blooms with honesty, truth and humor.
Hal is the dynamo leading this group of gay thespians as its artistic director, leading actor and resident playwright. He is also struggling to produce meaningful art for local audiences while striving to keep his multiracial/multi-gender/multi-generational company artistically challenged and emotionally happy, especially his partner of 14 years. As seen through a collection of onstage moments, backstage tiffs and audience talk-backs, Hal attempts to keep his little theater family fulfilled and working together.
This production has three things going for it. The first is a cast of six very talented actors. Bruch Reed stands out with his realistic and naturally nuanced portrayal of Hal, the master gardener in this bed of Flowers. His attempt to keep everyone content and still see that the show goes on is a juggling act for this artist of many hats. Caron Buinis is both Reed's foil and his foible, whether playing a bit long-in-the-tooth Juliet, a rebellious grad assistant or the company's temperamental diva, although that title continually shifts among characters in this play.
The second asset to this production is Marianna Csaszar's marvelous set design. Seldom has such a small stage been so creatively reinvented to accommodate the variety of locales and scenic demands as in this play. A college classroom set suddenly disappears and seconds later a living room, a Renaissance bedroom and a backstage dressing area all appear in a snap. Ms. Csaszar's ingenuity makes magic as this production flows seamlessly.
And the final element in this production is, of course, Trip Cullman's superbly sensitive direction. Without his vision, guidance, firm command and artistry, I suspect the play would not have played quite as beautifully as it does. However, since this XYZ Festival Headliner is in a limited engagement, this bouquet will not last very long. Catch "The Flowers" while they're in full bloom.
Reviewed by Centerstage!
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