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Regional Reviews: St. Louis The Price Also see Richard's review of Noises Off
I read Arthur Miller's 1968 drama years ago, but never remembered it having the impact of this new production. Even the silence strikes like thunder, under the direction of Bruce Longworth. And a handful of Miller's gloomy, act two realizations are like a doorway to Hell, briefly opened. There are plenty of funny, endearing moments, too, supplied by actor Bobby Miller as a used furniture buyer. But, even at the age of 89, Mr. Solomon seems like the only man on stage who can still look forward, despite his age. Of course, I read The Price years before I ever began to think of unraveling my parents' own estate. Now, the play seems a lot more personal, as two two brothers bargain with Mr. Solomon over a room filled with a household's remains. A grand "prodigal son" tale, this New Jewish Theatre production gives powerful voice to themes of deprivation and thwarted ambitions, even as it's kept aloft by an old man who's seen it all before. One brother stayed with their ruined father, while the other went out to conquer the world. Mr. Solomon does retreat off-stage for much of act two, but still a constant presence, as the brothers express their anguish and regret, face to face. We don't usually think of the Great Depression and post traumatic stress disorder at the same time, but it seems as good an explanation of the mood in this staging as any other. Michael James Reed as Victor, and Jerry Vogel as Walter (his brother) each seem to cringe with discomfort as they recall the sacrifice and torment of growing up in the 1930s. Ghastly memories are unearthed, and horrible questions are raised. But all in such a way that a poetic structure remains in force, even in the worst moments of emotional collapse. Mr. Reed has a quietly valorous presence as a policeman near retirement, and Mr. Vogel is surprisingly great during Walter's worst moments, in inarticulate anguish. (He's always great, but here, he seems to have pushed himself much farther out on a limb, psychologically.) Kelley Weber is excellent as Victor's wife, perpetually unsure of her own position in the world, and showing a great arc of character: blushing over compliments; and later thinking of leaving him, for failing to grasp an opportunity to flee their narrow means. She heightens the drama with a wounded (and often a startled) stare, coaxing information from her husband, bit by bit. Through April 6, 2014, at the Jewish Community Center, just west of Lindbergh Blvd. on Scheutz Rd. (between Page and Olive). For more information visit www.newjewishtheatre.org. Cast Crew * Denotes Member, Actors Equity Association
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