By Claire DeMarco
“Noises Off” is a slapstick comedy on steroids!
Developed as a play within a play, we travel with a small theater group in England through three stages (no pun intended) of the play’s production. Play rehearsal is fraught with miscues, missing props, and general confusion. The director coaxes, cajoles, and, at times, loses his temper as he tries to keep the players on track. It’s apparent that this theater group is not ready yet for prime time.
The next iteration seen by the audience is from a backstage perspective. This is the play’s debut performance. We hear the players act and see them in shadow, while the emphasis is on backstage, there’s movement and action, but no vocals.
The cycle ends with the play’s final performance, which elevates the players’ miscues, missteps, and general aggravation with one another to a higher level. The play has been touring for several weeks.
Note: No further divulging of what actually happens next. You have to see it for yourself, but I believe you will enjoy this production of “Noises Off”.
A bit of satire, a dash of slapstick, and throw in some farce!
Kudos to the entire cast of “Noises Off” – a well-balanced, talented, gymnastic, coordinated, and most of all, hilarious group! This production only works (and does) if there is no broken link in the chain. All the actors brought their characters to life in their own unique way.
The actors are Lara Hayhurst, Matt Henderson, Wali Jamal, Jeremy Kahn, Gwendolyn Kelso, Linda Mugleston, Saige Smith, Rowan Vickers, and Ricardo Vila-Roger.
The satire “Noises Off” was written by Michael Frayn in 1982.
Tim Mackabee’s front and backstage set design is complemented by Lighting Designer Marika Kent’s work.
Fight and Intimacy Director José Pérez IV is very successful at his job, which is a massive undertaking.
Excellent direction by Margot Bordelon.
-CED
“Noises Off” runs from October 1st to October 19th at the O’Reilly Theater. “Noises Off” is a production of Pittsburgh Public Theater. For tickets and additional information, click here.
