Heroes
|
Cariou, Segal, Benjamin
Michael Lamont
|
By Melinda Schupmann
As a trio of performers, it would be hard to find more durable actors than Len Cariou, Richard Benjamin, and George Segal. Their collective résumés encompass stage, screen, television, directing...the list goes on and on. The setting of this play, translated by Tom Stoppard from Gérald Sibleyras' Le Vent des Peupliers, is a veterans' home in France. Three inhabitants share a secluded terrace, and each day they meet to talk over old times and, occasionally, events in their days at the home.
Gustave (Segal) is agoraphobic, though it is not clear early on that he could have such an affliction, because he is the most restless of the three, clearly out for adventure. Philippe (Benjamin) has suffered trauma from the war, and he has "spells" that cause him to faint from time to time. Henri (Cariou) has been at the home for more than twenty years, yet it doesn't inhibit him from lascivious thoughts nor forays to see the girls of a nearby school.
The play is lyrical in Stoppard's hands. It is warm and humorous, stopping just short of sentimentality. Cariou is thoroughly believable as a now-lame vet who balances the threesome. Benjamin is pluperfect as the slightly dotty Philippe, with an inexhaustible supply of comic faces and physical dexterity. Segal is delightful as the fractious but amusing Gustave. His is the newest occupancy, and he covers his own disability with cocky pronouncements.
Much credit must be given to director Thea Sharrock. Her delicate touch restrains these three powerful actors and never lets the story become maudlin or farcical.
Credit, too, goes to the technical side of the performance. Howard Harrison's lighting design is beautifully mellow, capturing the ambience of these days the friends spend together. Robert Jones' set is likewise elegant.
This is a thoroughly satisfying story, even though its action takes place in such placid surroundings. It is life affirming amid the tiny complaints of communal living. Stoppard's vocabulary sense makes the story rich and memorable. This American premiere play looks like it will appeal to theater companies everywhere because of its wit, compassion, and opportunity for finding hope in aging.
Heroes, presented at the Geffen Playhouse, 10886 Le Conte, Los Angeles (Westwood.) Ticketmaster or Geffen Box Office. Online at www.geffenplayhouse.com. Tues. through Thurs. at 7:30; Fri. at 8; Sat.at 4 & 8:30; and Sun. at 2 & 7. Tickets are $35 to 69. Adult rush is $35 and student rush is $15. Closes May 27.
|
