This Glass Sparkles
Tennessee Williams classic play gets a brilliant revival at the Stratford Festival.
The Stratford Festival, fresh off two Williams pieces last season (Cat On A Hot Tin Roof and Orpheus Decending) tackles one of his best-known pieces with verve.
Taken from William's experiences growing up in a single-parent home (and some say his life with his overbearing mother and his relationship with his sister), The Glass Menagerie is by far his most biographical theatre work, and some would consider his best.
Stratford last presented The Glass Menagerie in 1985, and so a new production is long overdue, and thankfully, under the directorial leadership of acclaimed director Miles Potter, this production doesn't disappoint.
Seana McKenna plays the matriarch of the Wingfield family Amanda, and plays the role perfectly, with the right amount of sauce, humour, and motherly love.
Steven Sutcliffe is the show's narrator, Tom Wingfield, and while he may not be a typical choice for the part, he attacks the role with strength, passion and vision for the story he is sharing with the audience.
Sara Topham is Laura Wingfield. Her performance is subtle and sweet, and in the climatic final scene of the play, your heart will break for her.
As the Gentlemen Caller Jim, Matthew Macfadzen has probably the most daunting task of any of his fellow actors - arriving in the second act of the piece and establishing himself immediately in the throes of the story. He does so with ease, and is very charming and suave as the potential suitor for Laura.
Miles Potter brings out the best in his four actors, and uses the most of the spacious Avon Theatre, with Peter Hartwell's sets and costumes.
This production of The Glass Menagerie is one for the ages - a beautiful, thoughtful production of one of the most touching plays of the 20th Century. Be sure to catch this gem - it's worth every moment.
The Glass Menagerie
Stratford Festival, Ontario
Starring Seana McKenna and Steven Sutcliffe
**** (out of five)
