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This new
adaptation by Gregory Blair is faithful to the original, and rest
assured is not as lengthy as the well known Royal Shakespeare Company
version of 1980. In attempting to fit so many characters on a stage
and spit out several storylines in only two and a half hours time,
there are moments where the dramatic punch fails as in the sad outcome
for the character of Smike and moment where Uncle Ralph learns of a
shocking revelation in Act Two. However, what does work is the
character of Nicholas Nickelby. His character comes across very
likeable and the audience roots for him to have a happy ending. There
are also a parade of minor characters who do entertain and help move
the story along as in the case of the poshy Cheeryble brothers, the
evil Squeers family, and the members of the traveling theater troupe.
Under the
direction of August Vivirito, the strongest draw in this
production are the actors. Ethan Kogan is appealing and engaging as
Nicholas Nickelby. He brings his talent to the table and performs with
ease. Steven Connor gives a believable performance as the greedy Uncle
Ralph. Skip Pipo shows he is having fun in the role of reliable
servant Newman Noggs. Jennifer Ruckman brings intelligence into the
character of Nicholas sister Kate. Jeremy Lelliott draws sympathy as
the sickly Smike, and does what he can with the role. Scot Renfro and
Georgan George prove to be a devilish pair as the evil Squeers.
Michelle Simek's characterizations of Fanny Squeers and Nina Crummles
are hilarious. Joy Nash juggles all her minor roles with gusto and is
a hoot to watch in every scene. Rounding out the cast are John
Basiulis, Frank Kesby, Jonathon Markanday, Dominick Marrone, Aubrey
Saverino, Margaret Schugt and Scotty Servis.
The
costumes in this production are simply divine and bring quality to the
production. The set design also recieves a kudos nod, fully utilizing
the small theater space with great detail bringing the audience into
the world of Nicholas Nickelby.
Come and experience the world of Nicholas Nickelby. The story
is captivating and the actors are top rate.
- Adrian Rennie
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Produced
by The Production Company, Nicholas Nickelby performs at The
Complex’s Flight Theatre, located at 6472 Santa Monica in Hollywood,
CA. Running through January 15, 2006, performances are Thursday
through Saturday at 8pm, and Sundays at 2pm. There are no performances
on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Years Eve, and New Years Day.
General Admission is $20.00. Students and Seniors with ID, tickets are
$15.00. Cash only at the Box Office. There is an ATM on the premises.
For
reservations, please call (310) 869-7546
Website to
Explore
http://www.theproductioncompanyla.com/
- Official Production Website
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charles_Dickens
- Bio on Charles Dickens
http://www.dickens-literature.com/Nicholas_Nickleby/index.html
- Nicholas Nickelby by Charles Dickens
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