Arundel Festival review - Visiting Mr Green
Visiting Mr Green by Jeff Baron at the Arundel Jailhouse.
AMERICAN Express executive Ross Gardiner could hardly expect to be welcomed with open arms when he first called round to the home of widower Mr Green.
Ross had been ordered by a judge to make weekly visits for six months to help Mr Green with any domestic chores - as part of a community service order for wreckless driving.
Ross nearly knocked down Mr Green. Nearly, but not quite.
The simmering resentment at their first meeting is almost tangible in this latest production of Jeff Baron's award-winning play.
But as the visits continue - due to the insistence of the judge rather than any willingness by the two protagonists - there is a profound change in the respect they develop for each other.
This is not just the story of a poignant bond between two men of different generations and backgrounds.
At a deeper level this play effortlessly confronts and exposes the demons, fears, and prejudices, that afflict so many in such varied ways.
As family secrets are laid bare the two men are forced to re-evaluate the very views that have shaped them all their lives.
This production, staged at the Arundel Jailhouse as part of the town's Festival, is mesmerisingly good.
It could almost be described as West End quality. Almost. Except it's better. The intimate theatre that is the Arundel Jailhouse means you will never find a venue that allows you such close access to a play - nor that permits you to scrutinise it and the calibre of its presentation to this extent.
The two actors are remarkable.
G Philip Hope gives such an exacting portrayal of Mr Green coming to terms with the death of his beloved wife, that his sorrow at this and other unfolding traumas are uncomfortably real.
Collin Baxter, who dextrously manages a fast change of costume for every scene to represent the passing weeks, moves effortlessly from hard-bitten executive Ross to a much gentler yet passionate personna - a character whose vulnerabilities are laid bare in this forced encounter. Not only is Mr Baxter an extraordinarily accomplished actor but he is the creative force behind the Jailhouse.
Special praise must also go to stage manager Rebecca Hope and technical manager Jeremy Jacobs.
This production of Visiting Mr Green perfectly achieves the author's goal of driving to that which defines the very existence of its cast.
The Arundel Jailhouse is a small venue - but it can accommodate a larger audience than those who attended on Tuesday night. Tickets are a bargain at 6 (5 concessions).
To book please call 01903 889821 or email boxoffice@arundeljailhouse.co.uk
Performances run most nights until Sunday (August 29) starting at 8.30pm.
For full details of all performances at the excellent Arundel Festival go to www.arundelfestival.co.uk
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Thursday 24 May 2012
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