The Talking Band's new production, New Islands Archipelago, written and directed by Paul Zimet, has the feeling of a band of old-time Mummers in this performance-art piece taking place on a cruise ship. This is high-level theater in all aspects with an accomplished cast who act, sing and dance. All the characters are odd, but all the actors, including Todd D'Amour, James Himelsbach, Kristine Haruna Lee, Bianca Leigh, Ellen Maddow and Steven Rattazzi, are totally believable. It's an The design by Nic Ularu, creating the inside of a ship and an ocean, is brilliant, and lighting by Nan Zhang is excellent. Costumes by Olivera Gajic are perfect for these skewed characters as their domestic dramas, including elements of silent film, with a Madoff scheme mixed in, unfold. Video projections by Simon Tarr give dimension and scope to the entire production. Ellen Maddow's music, well-played by
extraordinary piece, filled with imagination, full of humor based on character, and surprises.
Harry Mann and Beth Meyers, is original, and enhances everything. Choreography by Hilary Easton is clean and clear in this fun play performed by its talented, versatile cast. Thru June 6th at 3LD Art & Technology Center
Previews:
May 20, 2010
Ended:
June 6, 2010
Country:
USA
State:
New York
City:
New York
Company/Producers:
The Talking Band
Theater Type:
off-off-Broadway
Theater:
3LD Art & Technology Center
Theater Address:
80 Greenwich Street
Phone:
212-352-3101
Website:
talkingband.org
Genre:
Comedy-Drama
Director:
Paul Zimet
Review:
Cast:
Todd D'Amour, James Himmelsbach, Kristine Lee, Bianca Leigh, Ellen Maddow, Steven Rattazzi, Tina Shepard
Technical:
Set: Nic Ularu; Music: Ellen Maddow; Lighting: Nan Zhang; Costumes: Olivera Gajic
Critic:
Richmond Shepard
Date Reviewed:
May 2010
