By: Joseph Szalinski
Every family has that one relative who’s probably better off sequestered from society, at their own volition or otherwise. If you’re struggling to think of someone who fits the bill, you’re likely that individual. And what better place to live low than in the basement? Granted, my family kept me in an attic, where I was free to worm through the crawlspace, but basements are a solid option for most people. It’s in a basement that we meet a rather peculiar trio in BLT’s production of Downstairs, directed by Jud Stewart, and produced by Jessica Sanzotti, now running at Butler Little Theatre in Butler, PA.
Written by Theresa Rebeck, Downstairs begins with Teddy couch surfing at his sister Irene’s place following a momentary setback, all the while avoiding Irene’s husband, Gerry. During his stay, the siblings bond while reminiscing about their deceased mother and absentee father. All goes fairly well until Gerry finally decides to pay a visit…
The acting is phenomenal. Shows are always demanding on the performers when the number of characters is so few, but this cast rises to the challenge magnificently. They’re even in charge of their own wardrobes! Jud M. Stewart is fantastic as Teddy. Channeling his charm through wiry physicality and impressive feats of dialogue, whether he’s monologuing or playing off of one of the other actors, his dedication pays off beautifully.
Teddy’s sister, Irene, is wonderfully brought to life by Elizabeth Smith. Irene’s the most dynamic character in terms of temperament, going from concerned relative to friendly sister to skittish housewife, and so on. Smith effortlessly embodies every iteration of the character when required. Even though she’s enjoyable throughout the entire show, she really shines in the first half when it’s just Irene and Teddy for 45 minutes or so. When the two of them are seated at the table, recalling childhood memories, she lets out a warm, sincere laugh that one can’t help but relish as they bond.
Every story needs a villain, and Tom Smithyman is astoundingly sinister as Irene’s husband, Gerry, who, much like Linda Patrik, isn’t a huge fan of his brother-in-law, Teddy. The most menacing element of Smithyman’s approach is the reserved attitude he brings to the character. He’s cruel and calculated, cautious to compromise his carefully crafted façade until it’s necessary. Physically imposing, he attracts the audience’s attention with every step but is still considerate enough to cede the stage to his scene partners when it’s their turn to show off their skills. He complements the production with his seething rage and his biting insults that leave crowds flabbergasted.
While not a character in the standard sense, the basement set almost functions like one. Designed by George Arnold and constructed by him, Glen Bittner, Art Black, Gayle Funk, Larry Scott, Jud Stewart, Rachel Wayne, and Katy Wayne, it is something to behold. Every single detail is incredible. Equally unique and eerily familiar. I’d love to crash there. Props to George Arnold and Jud Stewart, who handled, well, the props that really flesh out the scenes. Lighting by Philip Ball and stage manager Min Barlowe assist in illuminating the brilliant cast and set. Matt Leslie, Katy Wayne, and Rachel Wayne provide the necessary backstage magic that allows the show to operate as it does.
Butler Little Theatre is a great venue and theatre company that has been staging stellar productions for the better part of a century. Since its inception, it’s drawn attendees from down the street and from towns away to marvel at the majesty of live performance. A beautiful building, BLT provides a reason to venture up north for a show. Despite reservations some might have about visiting the “Birthplace of the Jeep,” Pittsburghers have no ground to be pretentious. They are doing themselves a tremendous disservice by missing out on an historic arts and cultural scene.
Downstairs continues its run March 24th-28th at Butler Little Theatre in Butler, PA. For more information or tickets, click here.
