**CUE REVIEW *** CUE REVIEW *** CUE REVIEW **
"The Conversation at Choctaw Junction"
Blueberry Pond Theatre Ensemble is the only professional theatre company in Westchester County whose season consists solely of original work. It is committed to developing cutting-edge, provocative works as well as fostering the talents of local writers, actors and directors. The intimate, comfortable Laylon Theatre, nestled in Ossining is picturesque Cedar Lane Park, provides a perfect setting to lose oneself in good theater.
Their current production, "The Conversation at Choctaw Junction" by Jean-Paul DeVellard is a gripping tale of one woman's journey through love, loss and betrayal in a sultry Louisiana setting. The play is sexy, funny, thought provoking and intense. Under the direction of Anthony Valbiro this talented cast captivated the audience from beginning to end and led us through the intricacies of the intriguing plot with ease. The characters had remarkable on-stage chemistry and elicited sympathy and affection from the audience. Each character was well defined and authentic. Elena Zazanis, as Madrid, was charmingly naughty, her pacing impeccable and her exceptional comedic timing and delivery provided perfect comic relief. Janelle (Tracey McAllister), Madrid’s housekeeper, was feisty but loving and her affection for Madrid authentic. Her husband, James was deftly portrayed by Forest Hamilton as an honest, caring man struggling with himself. Cotton (Richard Manichello) was a blustery old man whose bark was far worse than his bite. Jill Maynard as Mamie was earthy and delivered her clever, comedic lines to perfection. Topping off the cast was Jack Pace as the conniving but vulnerable Traveler who was so lovable that he surely could have found a home with anyone in the audience!
The scenic design, by Hallie Flannigan Wolfe, was so authentic and attractive that you felt as if you were in Louisiana immediately upon entering the theater. Lighting and sound effects by Jeffrey Whitsett, as well as the costuming were spot on and enriched the production.
This is the first Blueberry Pond production I have seen and it won't be my last. As much as I love theater "favorites", I find original theater refreshing. Attending Blueberry Pond Theatre Ensemble productions should be on every theater lovers "to do" list.
Performances continue through December 13th on Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 8:00 pm and 2:00 pm matinees on Saturday and Sunday. For tickets, call 1-877-FOR-4TIX or visit smarttix.com and search for "Blueberry".
Camille Kaiser
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