Image provided by: University of Oregon Libraries; Eugene, OR
About Eugene weekly. (Eugene, Oregon) 1993-current | View Entire Issue (Sept. 28, 2017)
T H E AT E R BY RACHAEL CARNES WHAT’S THE DEAL WITH EVERYTHING ON EARTH? OCT opens its season with playwright Will Eno’s masterful Middletown W ill Eno’s Middletown, playing now at Ore- gon Contemporary Theatre, is a masterfully written, beautifully produced effort that seeks the extraordinary in the everyday. Directed by Tara Wibrew, Middletown is like a metaphysical global positioning system that the playwright uses to orient us to a cosmological map of seemingly ordinary moments. I don’t give away plots. And to delve too deeply into the interconnections between and among characters — or what they might represent, or what it might all mean — would dampen the audience’s discovery and delight. So, instead, I’ll highlight some exquisite work. Robert Hirsh surprises as a “Cop” who is decidedly not Andy Griffith; his arc is nuanced and sharp as we develop a macro view of who he is. Joel Ibáñez as “Mechanic” drives a powerful through- line with a performance that’s raw and honest. Mechanic is the emotional marrow of the play, subtly but consistently directing us to form new ideas. As “Librarian,” Sharon Sless’s bubbly, nurturing candor reminds us that the civilized world would unravel quickly without those unflappable souls who seem put on Earth to navigate the bumpy process of being a human being for the rest of us. THE CAST OF OCT’S MIDDLETOWN Erica Towe resonates as a fragile, questioning “Mrs. Swanson.” Prim and put together, she’s purposeful and determined, but will she survive her loneliness? And Russell Dyball as “John Dodge” carries his character’s comic pathos right down the field for one touchdown after another. Granted, he has a lot of great zingers to work with, but it’s Dyball’s impeccable comic timing that sets the gold standard. The cast is rounded out by dual roles, performed ably by Matt Holland, Jerilyn Armstrong, Kelly Oristano, Kari Welch, Shawn Bookey, Storm Kennedy and Sabrina Gross. A tip of the hat, in particular, to Holland’s opening monologue and to Oristano as “Male Doctor,” who offers the perfect blend of clinician and sage. Jerry Hooker’s set gleams; with its comforting right angles and floor-to-ceiling map, we know where we are and what happens here. Transitions between locations flow seamlessly, and together with lighting by Kat Matthews, sound by Bradley Branam and costumes by Jeanette DeJong, we’re offered just enough visual guidance to continually lead our imaginations to new locales. Pleasurable and richly immersive, Eno’s sharp wit and crackling lyrical rhythm confidently volley dialogue across time and space. This is anywhere. This is us. Middletown continues through Oct. 14 at Oregon Contemporary Theatre; tick- ets at octheatre.org. YOUR SECOND NIGHT IS FREE! There’s never been a better time to stay at the Inn At Spanish Head. I t’s the most beautiful coast in the world. F ace it. Through December 23, 2017 experience exceptional lodging at Oregon’s only resort hotel built right on the beach, and take advantage of our “Second Night Free” discount on stays Sunday through Thursday. All guest rooms are oceanfront with floor-to-ceiling windows that frame glorious sunsets, spectacular cloud formations and the ocean waves. And, some say you can actually see the curve of the earth as you enjoy breakfast, lunch, dinner or a drink at Fathoms, our penthouse restaurant and bar. For more information or to make your reservation phone 800-452-8127. Some restrictions apply. 34 September 28, 2017 • eugeneweekly.com 4009 SW Highway 101, Lincoln City, OR 800-452-8127 SpanishHead.com
