Buried Child

Reviewed by: Nicholas Linnehan

ONE OF THE BEST SHOWS THIS YEAR!
A few months ago, I had reviewed a production of Buried Child, and said that the company had a handle on how to produce Sam Shephard's bizarre play about a family hiding a dark secret. While I stand by that, the production of this play by Nicu's Spoon revealed an even more unbelievable way to produce this work. Director, Stephanie Barton-Farcas led her cast with brilliance, intelligence, and heart. The show was powerful, moving, and surprisingly funny; a credit to her and the amazing cast.

The cast featured Wynne Anders as Halie, and Jim Williams as Dodge. These two grabbed a hold of the audience from the first moment and didn't let go until the last word was spoken. Simply superb! Also Darren Fudenske, a deaf actor, portraying Tilden proves that good acting is about doing and is alive in the body. His vocal limitations did not detract from the play as he played his part with sincere conviction that transcends any physical disability, thereby telling the story without losing his audience. No small feat. I could go on and on about this talented and connected ensemble of actors, who's tremendous honesty is so refreshing to watch. The production is quite impressive. This show is what live theater is supposed to be and proves that it still exists. Unfortunately, it is rare to see this kind of theater (even though its exactly what all theater should be); the kind that leaves its audience breathless and wanting more!

Buried Child plays from now through Oct 22nd at the Access Theater located at 380 Broadway. You owe it to yourself to see this one, trust me. Nicu's spoon hits a grand slam with this one, and if this is the kind of theater they produce, the theater community has a lot to look forward to.