We are in the New York City subway in this
modern-day version of Noel Coward’s classic Brief
Encounter and again here are two people, meant for each other, who can
never realize the happiness it promises. Stephen Sachs has written and directed
this extraordinarily moving play with a new approach: the eloquent man is Deaf
and the troubled woman hard-of-hearing as are the two actors. Their
communications are all by signing and yet we hear their voices through other
actors and their words by writing on the walls. By framing this against vivid
fast-moving film of NYC crowds and scenes, Sachs draws us into that dynamic high-energy
milieu.
Heading the superb cast are Troy Kotsur and Deanne
Bray, and there is an intensity to their performances that transcends imaginary
characters. Bray’s Emily especially tears at our hearts. Married to a good but
insensitive man, with a rebellious teenage daughter, her need for tenderness is
palpable. Kotsur’s Sam is a teacher at a school for the Deaf, who gives support
wherever he finds need while asking for little in return. When he forms a bond
with Emily he opens himself to longings and emotions he has held in check for
years. Their final parting although anticipated (we all know the original
story) has an impact that resonates deeply. The ever haunting – if only…
Adding to the intensity of the play are parallel
stories, with Jessica Jade Andres and Shon Fuller (Waitress vs. Subway Cop)
teasing and battling in their longing to connect honestly. Aurelia Myers’
troubled teenager searches desperately for love on social media. Brian Robert
Burns is touching as Emily’s sincere but mystified husband, while Adam Burch
and Stasha Surdyke are splendid in multiple roles.
At The Fountain Theatre,
5060 Fountain Ave (at Normandie) in Hollywood.
Photos by Ed Krieger.
Also reviewed in the September issue of NOT BORN YESTERDAY
