LOS
ANGELES, CA - Duet for One is the inaugural production from
A Gin Joint Theatre. Inspired by the world-renowned cellist
Jacqueline du Pré, who was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in
1973 and succumbed to the disease in 1987, Tom Kempinski’s Duet
for One explores the subject of Multiple Sclerosis and the
effects upon a world-class concert violinist. Directed
by Mark Wilkinson, this story is told in six conversational
therapy sessions between a patient and her psychiatrist.
Annunziata Gianzero takes on the challenging role of Stephanie
Abrahams, a woman whose life has been turned upside down by her
illness. Bill Bradshaw plays Dr. Feldman, a man determined to
help her. These actors began the show as head strong strangers.
It is fascinating to watch their relationship grow, despite the
resistance of Stephanie. By the end of the play, they establish
a bond that is both realistic and mature. Introducing
the audience to a person with MS, and giving her a name, one can
clear up misconceptions concerning Multiple Sclerosis. From
being prescribed a different amount of drugs and dealing with
their effects, to realizing how a life is forever changed when
it comes to pondering suicide, marriage, and child bearing,
these struggles are displayed for all to see.
Duet
for One is an
educational piece of theater. Given the subject matter and how
prevalent this disease is today, this show is one to sit
through. One
special note to share is the profits from the run of this
production will be donated to the MS Society of Southern
California. Now that is admirable. - Adrian Rennie |
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