Wednesday, January 7, 2009

Theatre--Performance

Acting Unlimited presents its first production of 2009, Before You by Daniel Povinelli, at Cite Des Arts on January 8-10, 15-17, 22-24, curtain time 7:30 PM. Call 337-291-1122 for tickets.

This production represents the first major collaboration of Povinelli and Brown (a local stage version of the Coen Brothers ?). Danny started five years ago as a protégé of Walter Brown, arguably one of the most knowledgeable and creative theatre gurus in Acadiana. He served his apprenticeship under Walter as both actor and co-director, and now has evolved into “Resident Playwright” for Acting Unlimited.

Jason, played by Danny, is a research scientist (subatomic physicist?) in a state of torpor and ennui, discontented with his life and career and ready to quit his job.

To complicate matters, Jason is hounded by a senior colleague, Marshall, an ominous Bruce Coen, to finish a secret assignment (perfect his “love” equation?) and hit on by another senior colleague, Samantha, the sensual Kayla Lemaire. These characters sometimes appear in Jason’s dreams in cleverly staged scenes.

The “real” characters are George, a true underachiever played by Jack Robinson, who wants to be a borscht belt comedian and is a master of the groaning one-liner, and Helen, the radiant Christy Leichty, who saves Jason with love.

Danny’s cast are all veterans, some directors, who are perfect choices for the roles. His set is as perfect as it can be for the Cite Des Arts space.

Oh, by the way, Danny also composed the song Before You for the production! Incroyable!

--Robert D. Sidman, Ph.D.

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