'Mr
Green' a warm delightful dramedy
Theater review
By
Safiya Elkhaldy
On-line Forty-Niner
Although
"Visiting Mr. Green," is the title
of the play that opened Friday at the Long
Beach Performing Arts Center, through the
course of the play I felt Mr. Green was
visiting me instead. The play's main character,
Mr. Green, reminds the world that anyone
can get a second chance at life.
In
the play Mr. Green, played by Jack Axelrod,
is an 86-year-old widower who was almost
run over by Ross Gardiner, a 29-year-old
executive. Ross, played by David Heymann,
is sentenced to community service.
It consists of visiting Mr. Green every
Thursday for six months.
The
two men, brought together by chance, connect
through their own fears, disappointments,
triumphs and regrets. For Ross, visiting
Mr. Green becomes more than community service,
but a growing friendship.
The
question, "Who are you?" which
Mr. Green asks Ross repeateldy, visit after
visit, becomes more than just a line--it
becomes a soul searching journey where the
men look to discover who they really are.
The
accident becomes a blessing and both men
get a second chance at life. Mr. Green teaches
Ross more about his Jewish customs, about
taking chances, and taking time out for
others.
Consequently,
at age 86, getting a second chance at life
doesn't seem as easy for Mr. Green. His
stubborn, unforgiving, demanding and irritable
disposition leaves him lonely. Ross brings
a new perspective into Mr. Green's life
that gives him a warm outlook on life. It
reminds him that there is purpose and reason.
This challenges Mr. Green to let go of his
anger and allow his daughter and her family
into his life.
"I
am interested in themes of guilt,"
said Jack Axelrod, who plays Mr. Green.
"I
can identify with Mr. Green, because I am
alone. I have experienced the death of a
loved one a year and a half ago; I have
experienced those feelings of death and
mourning."
Like
Axelrod, the audience has the opportunity
to reflect on their own regrets and loss.
The play puts a face on people we erase
from our lives.
Director Caryn Desai, stressed how important
casting was since this was a play with only
two characters. For Desai, this meant two
men who could bear the burden. Not only
did David Heymann and Jack Axelrod "bear
the burden," they left me with the
feeling that the role was specifically designed
and written for them.
Visiting
Mr. Green runs from Sept. 5-Sept. 28 at
the Long Beach Performing Arts Center. For
reservations or ticket prices call (562)
436-4610.
|
