Reasons To Be Pretty

The thing about LaBute plays is that they are deceptively layered. His trademark nuanced dialogue could lull actor and audience alike into staying purely with the words; not dwelling too much on intent; especially as his incidental comedy always hits its mark. In this instance, one point appears to be the crux of this script - 'how much damage can be done by a careless remark?' When it comes to writing 'petty arguments' he's right up there with Woody Allen, but LaBute's stoushes are more about personal motives than punch-lines. He hands us a shovel and compels us to dig.

It speaks volumes about this production, that I am 'all about The Play' here. The well-cast ensemble have their audience at ‘Hello’, grab it by the lapels and never let up. Riveting, thoughtful, vulnerable performances all. As the only non-sympathetic character, Stephen James King would have faced  the biggest challenge finding his character without going over the top and he succeeds admirably. Set, sound and lighting are spot on. Director, James Beach has many reasons to feel pretty proud.

Rose Cooper

Image: Andrew Henry and Julia Grace. Photograph: Blueprint Studios.