What are they feeding the students at King’s? I only ask, because after seeing four plays there in the past five weeks, I’d say they have some secret recipe for turning out terrific actors.
The latest King’s Theatrical Society offering, Mary Chase’s 1944 classic Harvey, is one of the most delightful productions I’ve seen in a long time. It may set in the past, but there’s something very timely, as director Mike Fraiman says in his notes, about a story that deals with the search for “optimism in an increasingly pessimistic world”.
As the eccentric Elwood P. Dowd, Graham Conway is remarkable. He should seem creepy, what with his pasty skin, slicked back hair and antiquated mannerisms, but he simply radiates goodness. His performance is matched by Sarah Vanasse, as Veta, his social climbing sister. By and large, the supporting cast shines, though occasionally the acting veers towards tiresomely over the top.
There has been a lot of good theatre lately, but this production of Harvey, so witty, simple and charming, is one that truly stands out.
Harvey will be playing Nov 26 to 28 at 8:00 p.m. in the Pit at the University of King’s College. Tickets are $5 for students, $7 for adults. For reservations call 902-4220-6011 ext. 102.
This article appears in Nov 26 – Dec 2, 2009.