“Witnessed by the World” at 59E59 Theater B (Through December 15)
“Witnessed by the World” at 59E59 Theater B (Through December 15) Written by Ronnie Cohen and Jane Beale Directed by Karen Carpenter Reviewed by David Roberts Theatre Reviews Limited
With thousands of books published about John F. Kennedy, including tomes promulgating a variety of assassination conspiracy theories, it would seem risky to write a script about the events surrounding yet another conspiracy theory. Notwithstanding, Ronnie Cohen and Jane Beale decide to take that risk on the 50th Anniversary of Kennedy’s assassination with their new “Witnessed by the World” currently playing at 59E59 Theater B. It is regrettable to report that their concerted effort does not result in the success they most likely anticipated. The production falls flat on almost every level.
The playwrights’ script seems weak and predictable and Ms. Carpenter’s direction leaves the cast performing on the same emotional level throughout the ninety minute play. The production is further hampered by a set design that often appears more cluttered than sparse and although the “chalk drawing” projections that establish setting provide some interest, they cannot compete with the rest of the set’s deficiencies. And the black-outs between scenes are distracting and unnecessary.
“Witnessed by the World” has a stellar cast. Unfortunately these accomplished actors seem to deliver no more than lackluster performances. They seem not to be engaged with the script or with the inner workings of their characters. Even characters that might have some interesting traits fall flat on stage. For example, the announcement of Jack Ruby’s sister Eileen Kaminsky’s (Lois Markle) untimely death – first to screenwriter Ira Basil (Max Gordon Moore) then to acclaimed reporter Joan Ross (Charlotte Maier) seems to have the same emotional vector as mobster Joe Capano’s (Joe Tapper) offer of coffee to Aaron Spencer (Bob Ari) in his liquor store.
This lack of energy detracts from the impact the play might have with more energetic direction and a more functional set. It is intriguing that those involved in a conspiracy theory fifty years ago might still be interested in covering up their tracks; however, this premise might not provide the most interesting dramatic composition.
WITNESSED BY THE WORLD
The cast includes Bob Ari, Charlotte Maier, Lois Markle, Max Gordon Moore, and Joe Tapper.
The design team includes Libby Stadstad (Scenic Design), Cory Pattak (Lighting Design), Martin T. Lopez (Costume Design), Lindsay Jones (Sound Design), Matthew Haber (Projection Design). The Production Stage Manager is Jana Llynn. Production photos are by Douglas Denoff.
“Witnessed by the World” runs for a limited engagement through Sunday, December 15. The performance schedule is Tuesday – Thursday at 7:15 PM; Friday at 8:15 PM; Saturday at 2:15 PM & 8:15 PM; and Sunday at 3:15 PM. Please note, there is no performance on Thursday, November 28 (Thanksgiving). Performances are at 59E59 Theaters (59 East 59th Street, between Park and Madison Avenues). Tickets are $49 ($33.50 for 59E59 Members). To purchase tickets, call Ticket Central at (212) 279-4200 or go to www.59e59.org. Running time is 1 hour and 30 minutes with no intermission.
Permalink | Posted by David Roberts on Saturday, November 23, 2013
CEOExpress
