Little More Than You Wanted to Spend, A

Actor/director Chris Clavelli was struck by tragedy ten years ago -- his six year old son, whom he saw as a reflection of his own youth, died. A Little More than You Wanted to Spendis Clavelli’s one-man autobiographical play about events and characters in his life.

Offering an exuberant, dynamic performance, Clavelli plays many characters in his family, including a very funny picture of his alcoholic mother, and shows the conflict with his brother. Each character is clearly defined in voice, attitude and physicality, and this well-produced show is enhanced by projections by Luke Norby and soundscape by Michael G. Keck. It is cleanly directed by John Hickok, as Clavelli’s hopes, dreams, conflicts and tragedy unfold.

It is clear that Clavelli needed the catharsis of telling this story of his pain and loss, including going to grief counseling and bereavement counseling, and a touching, brief encounter with a wise Chassid. Spend makes for a gripping theatrical evening by a powerful actor with a wide range of talent and ability.