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Regional Reviews: Connecticut and the Berkshires Regional Reviews by Fred Sokol Stones in His Pockets Also see Fred's review of Almost, Maine
A Hollywood film crew comes to County Kerry in Ireland, a tiny village. Two local men are hired as extras for the movie: Jake Quinn (Arsenault) and Charlie Conlon (Morton). Jake enjoys the bar scene but is not especially swift with women while Charlie's video business recently shut down. Each could benefit from positive fortune. Morton is quite diverting as he plays Caroline Giovanni, the American woman who will star in the film. Arsenault is equally effective as Mickey, who was the last extra in the movie The Quiet Man. Morton is terrific as Simon, an assistant director. The play makes many jumps (as do these energized and deft actors). The most significant story line involves Caroline. Jake makes a connection with her but it is Morton who portrays the woman. Morton is also cast as one who deals with Caroline. Arsenault personifies a young man with problems, a young woman who helps with production, etc. Everything changes after intermission. Jones' script emphasizes that the two men are out of work. The theme evolves and becomes more serious. The two friends elect to make their own movie. Arsenault plays Rory, a leading man, while Morton, as Caroline, implores, "Oh Rory, will your people ever accept me?" Charlie has often stashed his own screenplay in one of his pockets. Stones in His Pockets demands that its performers shift, in mid-stream, mid-thought, mid-line, from one persona to the next. In this regard, the physically pliable actors triumph. Edward T. Morris's set is worth more than a mention. A huge crane is stationed stage right. Morris situates most everything on artificial grass which is on stage and runs up, partially, upon a rear wall. A large screen is multi-purpose. While minimalist, the scenic choices are influential in fueling tone and atmosphere. It is clear that the men are desperate to escape the downward spiral of their lives. Quite witty and clever during its first act, Jones' plot becomes darker for a time, then lightens again. Mostly, however, one applauds the visible dexterity of two actors. Throughout, director Evan Yionoulis propels them through many a literal twist and turn. Fast on their feet and swift with dialogue, Arsenault and Morton are winsome and seemingly tireless. Marie Jones is a smart writer and she invents a great deal. This is a short play, with a running time of one hour and fifty minutes, including intermission. The first portion is filled with levity, fancy and humor. The second section is heavier, and then it eases. The theater experience, as a whole, is distinctive through its performers. Stones in His Pockets continues at Yale Repertory Theatre in New Haven through February 16th. For tickets, visit www.yalerep.org or call (203) 432-1234.
- Fred Sokol |
