By Claire DeMarco
Growing old has its positive and negative components. It’s a plus if you’re still here and functioning but a minus if your mental capacities are slipping. But whatever the situation, loving friends and family make a big difference. “On Golden Pond” is an example where love triumphs.
Norman Thayer Jr. (John Reilly) and Ethel Thayer (Kathy Hawk) are ensconced at their vacation cottage for their 48th annual summer retreat. The cottage shows signs of age as does Norman. He is approaching his 80th birthday.
Norman was probably always a bit ornery, sarcastic and quick-witted but combined with the early signs of dementia, his outbursts now are mainly concentrated on death.
Ethel keeps Norman in line as much as possible, keeping him involved in their annual summer activities of picking strawberries, going for walks in the woods and listening to the loons. Being married to Norman requires both compassion and fortitude.
This summer their daughter Chelsea Thayer Wayne (Anne Marie Sweeney) makes a rare visit to the cottage, bringing her new boyfriend, Bill Ray (Justin Mohr) and Bill’s son, Billy Ray (Colin Bozick). Chelsea does not have a great relationship with her father. She hugs Ethel ferociously, acknowledges Norman but has no physical contact with him. She addresses her father as “Norman”.
The annual summer retreat takes on some unusual twists and turns when Chelsea and Bill head off for Europe, leaving Billy in Norman and Ethel’s care.
Reilly is phenomenal as Norman. His physical movements and facial expressions indicate his current state of mind, whether he’s befuddled or as sharp as a tack. His comedic timing is excellent as he spits out one of many sarcastic retorts. He is adept (at times) in concealing his frustration and fear when he realizes his diminishing mental state.
Hawk plays Ethel as compassionate, caring but stern when necessary. She expresses her concern for Norman’s decline sometimes through her facial expressions and at times through vocal, yet mostly tender interjections. Ethel loves Norman.
Hawke and Reilly are well-matched as Norman and Ethel Thayer.
Sweeney’s demeanor changes when Norman is mentioned as part of a conversation. She is noticeably tense when Norman is physically in the same room.
Mohr’s first interaction with Norman is slow as he tries unsuccessfully to converse with the elderly man. He tries to insert himself into a conversation that Norman tries to control. Mohr’s expressions throughout their discussions highlight his frustration.
Bozick shines as the teenager with the smart aleck mouth who is a pretty nice kid under that outward veneer.
Steve Gallagher is delightful as Charlie, the local mailman. As the town gossip, he loves a good conversation. With eyes bulging, he salivates waiting for or delivering the next juicy tidbit.
A fantastic well-balanced cast in a well-executed production!
Scenic Designer Tucker Topel’s detailed set emphasizes the well-worn summer cottage, filled with memorabilia, older furnishings, and in general need of repairs and updates.
Great direction by Dana Hardy Bingham.
Book by Ernest Thompson.
-CED
“On Golden Pond” runs from August 22nd – September 8th at Little Lake Theatre, 500 Lakeside Drive, Canonsburg, PA. For more information, click here.
Thanks for the great review!!!