According to Lincoln Center's new LCT3 project at its slogan, it takes "New Audiences for New Artists." It also takes new critics, hence the establishment of Theater Talk's New Theater Corps in 2005, a way for up-and-coming theater writers and eager new theatergoers to get exposure to the ever-growing theater scene in New York City. Writers for the New Theater Corps are given the opportunity to immerse themselves in the off-off and off-Broadway theater scene, learning and giving back high-quality reviews at the same time. Driven by a passion and love of the arts, the New Theater Corps aims to identify, support, and grow the arts community, one show and one person at a time.

Saturday, December 10, 2005

Lend Me A Tenor by Nicholas Linnehan

The Staten Island Shakespearean Theater, presents Lend Me A Tenor, led by Director Dina DiPilato. This play with all its farsical elements is acted well by a strong ensemble. The actors deal successfully with mistaken identity and sexual inuendo, which makes this play fun for everyone.

Brianne Berkson as Maggie and Richard Rella as Max lead the cast as the romantic leads. They fill their moments with impecable comic timing grounded in honest work, which makes them both funny and real. This is no small feat, as honesty can be lost in comedy but these two, and the rest of the cast, avoid that trap. Equally impressive are James Cunningham and Tina Barone as Tito and Maria Morelli. These two are a joy to watch as they fuel their scenes with Italian gusto; incredible anger toppled by a deep love.

The set and costumes are wonderful, making this a strong vibrant piece of theater. As the director requests, "Come see this show and relax and laugh." Im sure you will!

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