Muddy Waters Theatre is a unique company in that they devote each or their seasons to a single playwright, which in most cases would result in a schedule that strictly hews to the familiar. But, as a rare treat during their current season, which is devoted to Eugene O'Neill, they've decided to stage a little known comedy of his titled Now I Ask You. While the true authorship of the play is a matter of conjecture (Agnes Boulton O'Neill is also credited), there's a certain unmistakable quality to the dialogue that bears traces of a master at work. This current production is a nicely mounted affair that's surprisingly witty and amusing.
The upcoming nuptials of Lucy Ashleigh and Tom Drayton seem a foregone conclusion when the wildly impressionable Lucy decides to call the whole thing off. But, her mother was a free spirit as well, and she understands her daughter's desire to flaunt tradition. She convinces Tom to go along with Lucy's ideas about "free love", and even advises him to woo her bohemian friend Leo (Leonora) to placate her. However, this being a comedy and all, things go awry, when Leo's friend Gabriel, a budding poet, begins to suspect that Lucy has become enamored with him. As you can see, this plot is a far cry from the drama of Long Day's Journey into Night, isn't it?
Robert Ashton comfortably inhabits the role of Lucy's father, continually harrumphing his way through any understanding of his daughter's offbeat decisions. Andra Harkins also contributes as Lucy's mother, who went through her own wild times, and seems to comprehend her nature better than anyone else, although her advice is decidedly questionable at times. Katie McGee is solid as Lucy, but the role paints her as such a naive person that it's hard to muster much sympathy for her. Ben Ritchie is almost unrecognizable with his hair bleached blonde for the part, but he does fine work as Tom, especially as he tries to conceals his discomfort with having to accept Mrs. Ashleigh's instructions. Sarajane Alverson is a pistol as Lucy's friend Leo, and she seems to have a knack for wacky roles like this. Alan David also adds a much needed spark as Gabriel.
Jerry McAdams directs with a light touch, and this allows the humor to shine through. Really, the only thing hindering some of the laughs are the fact that O'Neill (whichever one it was) doesn't always provide the snappiest of punchlines. Sean Savoie's scenic design neatly renders the Ashleigh's patio, and the Drayton home in fine fashion. Mary Beth Amsler's costumes add to the overall period feel, and Jonathon Lebovic's lighting keeps the action in clear focus.
Muddy Water Theatre's charming production of Now I Ask You continues through June 27, 2010 at the Kranzberg Arts Center.
