Regional Reviews: Philadelphia And Tell Sad Stories of the Death of Queens
Tennessee Williams wrote And Tell Sad Stories of the Death of Queens in 1957, but it was not produced until 2004, more than 20 years after his death. Even by today's standards the story of these New Orleans queens feels uncommonly authentic and more than a bit shocking. Seeing this production makes me wish it were staged more frequently. The text is not the only extraordinary thing happening here. Tucker is mesmerizing, taking the audience along on a journey from deepest hope to abject self loathing. Nick Ware nails the role of Karl, impossibly cruel and yet clearly suffering through his own pain. The space is masterfully designed, allowing the audience to feel at though they are sitting beside Candy's Japanese-style garden or in her own elaborately decorated (lots of tulle and LED string lights) living room. Even the periodic pouring of champagne serves to heighten the emotional intensity of this remarkable production. EgoPo Classic Theater's And Tell Sad Stories of the Death of Queens, through September 8, 2019, at the 2019 Philadelphia Fringe Festival, Asian Arts Initiative, 1219 Vine Street, Philadelphia PA. Tickets are $20 and can be found at www.fringearts.com. By Tennessee Williams Cast: |