WHAT: Romeo And Her Sister
WHERE: New Hampshire Theatre Project
BLURB: A Historical Figure Brought To Light
HIGH POINT: A Most Interesting Tale
Romeo And Her Sister is an intriguing yarn based on a brilliant, yet all but forgotten, 19th century historical stage figure. Charlotte Cushman was the first American celebrity, the highest paid actor in the English speaking world, and one of the most famous people in the entire world. She also was a lesbian.
The historically based fictionalized account of Charlotte Cushman's life brings the story of this brilliant actor who lived a bold, queer life, to a new audience. While the script's facts are based in truth they're heavily played with. Some details are mixed and mingled. But the cut of the woman who defied social norms and still achieved greatness is all there.
What's astounding is that for most people today (including those well-versed in theater) this will be their introduction to this accomplished life.
We meet Charlotte in England before a major production of Romeo and Juliet, in which she will play the male lead to her sister Susan's Juliet. Performing male roles so brilliantly is a major reason for Charlotte's celebrity.
There are difficult struggles between Charlotte, and the younger sister Susan, who Charlotte has bankrolled, along with other family members, for her entire working life.
Sallie, Charlotte's dresser, confidant, and free American black woman, tries to keep the peace between them. She also enhances Charlotte's career through her own apt skills, in addition to protecting her and her exceptional life from jilted lovers and the Victorian society at large.
Charlotte proves a master at hiding her many relationships with women (with Sallie's help), and her latest tryst with Eleanora from her longtime partner Matilda; or at least for a time.
Things start to unravel when the jilted Matilda and Actor Edwin Forrest, Charlotte's bitter rival, conspire to destroy her.
In quick succession two articles appear in the British press intended to cripple the sisters. First there's a piece casting aspersions on Susan's honor which threatens her social standing and the production. Next comes an attack on Charlotte's "unnatural life," with the promise of proof to come - a death blow in Victorian times.
Playwright Jillian Blevins' storyline is quite intriguing - there's lots going on, with some well-sketched characters. Blevins shows a mighty fine ear for language and conversation, though at times it comes across a bit forced and a few short scenarios appear clumsy.
Still, this piece remains a strong, engaging and truly entertaining tale.
The production itself is a mix, with flashes of brilliance and moments of confusion, both with direction by Courtney St. Gelais and some of the performances.
St. Gelais has put together some truly smart scene changes, and overall does a fine job staging. The action moves quick and clean, with one notable exception, a confusing and clumsy fight scene.
For whatever weaknesses the cast may display, they have a superpower that keeps this piece fascinating - relationship. It's the backbone of this production keeping you interested and connected to the characters. Whether it's Charlotte and Sallie's shared caring and respect, Susan and Charlotte's squabbles and sincere affection, or the palpable loathing between Charlotte and Edwin - you buy it all.
Amy Desrosiers as Charlotte, and Seda Tuncok as Sallie are often perfect in their portrayals, their characters rich, nuanced and believable. But, on opening weekend, there are slips, the occasional less authentic moments that suspend belief, chipping at the otherwise lovely performances.
Greta Swartz's Susan has mere moments where she appears hesitant when first appearing. But, this passes quickly, and we're treated to a superb, authentic performance, truly delightful.
Michael Towle as Edwin Forrest gives an impeccable, refined performance as Charlotte's dastardly, pompous foe. He's strong, arrogant and creepy; a terrific performance, and truly a pleasure to watch.
Annie Stone as Matilda Hays offers a solid performance and a real sense of relationship throughout, and Corrie Owens-Beauchesne as Eleanora is reasonable and consistent.
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