Theatre
& Stage
reviews by SalsaChicago.com critic Al Bresloff
The Dresser
(thru Nov.14)
How fortunate
we are to have a theater like the Steppenwolf
and it's many accomplished members. The latest
production is The Dresser written by Ronald
Harwood that tells the tale of a traveling
theater company to do King Lear with its leading
actor, referred to as Sir (brilliantly portrayed
by John Mahoney), becoming somewhat erratic
and mad. His devoted "dresser" (the incredible
Tracy Letts) must find a way to keep his monarch
able to perform and thus we have a tale of
a love affair that is quite unique. The devoted
attendee to his employer/mentor. This is a
portrait of lives and the characters within,
all quality actors, even those who take on
the smallest of roles to bring this portrait
of life backstage to a waiting audience. Mary
Beth Fisher plays Sir's ex-wife with great
dignity and Peggy Roeder is solid as Madge.
Mike Nussbaum joins this cast in a small supporting
role, but does so with his special touch (after
all, he is one of Chicago's shining stars).
This cast, directed by Amy Morton shines in
every detail and the set by Santo Loquasto
will make you feel as though you are truly
backstage. Nan Cibula-Jenkins costumes and
Pat Collins lighting add to making this production
all that it should be and the music and sound
are handled by Rob Milburn and Michael Bodeen
to finish the perfect picture.
The Dresser
will run through November 14th on the stage
of The Steppenwolf Downstairs Theater located
at 1650 N. Halsted Street with performances
as follows:
