Date: Fri 01-Mar-1996

Publication: Bee

Author: SHANNO

Illustration: C

Location: A-10

Quick Words:

Beaux-Stratagem-Yale-Rep

Full Text:

(rev The Beaux' Stratagem @Yale Rep, 3/1/96)

Theatre Review-

Tough Going: `Stratagem' Needs Better Strategy In Rep's Work

(with photo)

By June April

NEW HAVEN - If one has not seen a "Restoration Comedy" and feels compelled to

have a so-called "educational experience," or if one hungers for an evening of

theatrical excesses, then perhaps the price of a ticket to Yale Repertory

Theatre's current production, The Beaux' Stratagem , could be comfortably

rationalized.

Described in its press release as "...a lusty, vigorous and sublime rendition

of George Farquhar's post-Restoration comedy," this reviewer can sincerely

acknowledge the accuracy of the adjective "vigorous."

There is repeated smashing into doors, slamming of doors and Keystone

Kops-type antics, energetically and sincerely played by actors whose

characters are grossly exaggerated and predictable. And the costumes! The

costumes are the most atrociously outrageous this reviewer has ever seen - a

nightmare from the likes of La Cage Aux Folles .

Written in the late 17th Century, this is one of three successful plays by

Irish actor-turned-playwright George Farquhar. He died at the age of 29 from

unknown causes, and penniless. His most important contribution seems to be

that Farquhar served as a bridge between the rather licentious creations of

the Restoration playwrights and the humanistic theatre of the 18th Century.

Having seen the delightfully creative and outrageous Mystery of Irma Vep ,

directed (and acted in) by Everett Quinton, this reviewer found Mr Quinton's

interpretation of The Beaux' Stratagem a few leaps downward in artistic

genius.

As the artistic director of the Ridiculous Theatrical Company, there is no

question of Everett Quinton's many talents. This production, however, does not

hit its intended mark. The fact that after intermission there were a few

pockets of empty seats, where there had been a full house at first curtain,

testifies to the fact others were also unhappily entertained.

The cast of 16 third-year acting students play their parts as directed. It is

no fault of theirs the characters are excessively caricatured. In spite of all

the hamming up, though, Sarah Rafferty, as the resourceful and naughty Cherry,

is quite delightful. Rene Augesen as Gypsy also strikes a special balance in

her antics.

The best part of the show is the sets. The singing heads and

"buffalo-head-tap" are ingenious devices which add a uniquely humorous

dimension to the evening.

Credit also for the live keyboard artistry goes to composer Kim Sherman, who

plays with panache and adds a musical flavoring to the evening's efforts.

The Beaux' Stratagem continues through March 9. Tickets are $25-$30 at the

Yale Rep box office, at 1120 Chapel Street in New Haven. Tickets can also be

charged by calling 432-1234.