The
question of what defines a man is heavily explored in this new play by Jack
Betts and the story is intriguing even if its creation is overly didactic. Four-star
general, Douglas Gallegher, barks orders at his sons as if they were troops
under his command and is determined to send them away to military school. It’s no wonder they hate him, and why his
wife puts up with him is an unsolved mystery. What apparently changes Douglas into a human being is the realization that thirty
years before he almost destroyed his gay twin brother. But it’s hard to believe
in Douglas’ spiritual awakening and the
revelation when it comes is told in words but not believable action. Sometimes
the dialogue sounds like speeches from an article on the subject and one feels
a message hitting us over the head. Yet beneath this is a strong human story –
brother against brother – father against sons – that one wishes was explored
more deeply.
Kevin McCorkle, as Douglas, plays
the bully well but never lets us see other dimensions; Rachel O’Meara, as his
wife, is so naturally fearless it suggests that her husband possibly has
lighter moments; Justin Preston and Edan Freiberger, as their two sons, are
dynamic as a punk rock duo, then totally believable as dutiful sons being sent
to emotional death; Laurie O’Brien has a challenging role as a mysterious woman
artist guarding a secret, and a manuscript, that can shatter all their lives or
bring resolution to their conflicts.
Produced by David Bartlett and
directed by author Betts, the production is graced by a number of exquisite
sets by Jeff McLaughlin, that are sadly marred by the length of time needed to
change them. The excellently chosen costumes are by Kellsy MacKilligan.
At the Marilyn Monroe Theatre, Lee Strasberg
Center, 7936 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood, through May 5. Tickets at www.ItGoesLikeThis.net/tickets/
or call (800) 838-3006.
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