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Regional Reviews: Washington, D.C. The Diaries Riveting would be the word used to describe Signature Theatre's production of The Diaries. Written by John Strand, the piece is having its world premiere at the renowned regional theater. The Diaries is a play that focuses on Steve Alton, an admired entomologist. During a ceremony where he is being honored for his long career, Alton is shaken by an unwelcome visitor. It is a young student who claims that Alton is not who he appears to be. Alton is not just a respected scientist, he is a former Nazi officer who went by the name of Stephan Altsanger. The young man claims he has proof of this deception. He has found a diary that Stephan kept during World War II. However, there is more to that diary than meets the eye and Stephan's true story is revealed. John Strand has written a provocative script. It raises a number of questions but there is one that stands more prominently among the rest. What constitutes a hero? Strand has written Stephan as a complex character. A war hero in his youth, he is now in his forties and is content to sit back and observe. This former warrior displays definite signs of weakness through his actions or lack thereof. But in the end the question arises - was he truly ineffectual? Edward Gero as Stephan does an outstanding job of carrying the show. Throughout the two hour and five minute show, he never leaves the stage. In that time he delivers a performance that is well balanced and extraordinarily subtle.
PJ Paparelli has artfully directed this piece and manages to engage the audience despite its difficult subject matter. The scenic elements in this show are also on target. Ethan Sinnott has designed oversized pieces that relate to Stephan's life. A larger than life microscope lens and steps made up of huge diary pages are created in a way that fits the mood of the play. Adam Wernick's sound design and original music adds realism and drama to the piece. Mr. Wernick's work is superb and it would not be surprising if there were a Helen Hayes Award nomination in his future. This play may be unsettling for those that have been personally impacted by that time in history. At times, The Diaries is not an easy play to watch. However, it is constructed in a way that makes one eager to see what happens next. The Diaries runs through July 14th. The Signature Theatre Cast List Steve Alton: Edward Gero
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