Clifton Players is back and its first offering this season is Orphans by Lyle Kessler. Described in short as two abandoned brothers trying to survive in North Philadelphia circa the 1980s, this dramatic comedy premiered in my old stomping grounds of Los Angeles where it won the Drama-Logue Award.
The Production Team
Kevin Crowley, who had seen the show at Steppenwolf in the mid-1980s at Chicago’s Steppenwolf Theatre under the direction of Gary Sinise, takes the helm on this three-person tale. Mr. Crowley’s understanding of the text is second to none. In addition, he makes use of the limited playing space (the show is set entirely in the brothers’ living room) in allowing us to feel that the action is free and grand while being appropriately stifled when the scene demands it. While pacing is mostly spot-on, it could certainly use a wee jolt in some scenes. Set Design by Kevin Kunz is smart and adaptable; nothing appears brand new which is vital to the plot. Extra kudos to Set Builders Caleb Kunz & Nick Comerford and to Costumer Pam Shooner.
The Performing Artists
A show like this needs a powerful and cohesive trio of actors and Clifton Players understood the assignment. I was particularly impressed by Tank Thacker–who should be seen on far more stages in this town. They play Phillip, the younger and naïve brother, and their depiction hits the sweet spot. It can be easy to play a “simple” character in a way that is too childlike or lacks depth, but Mx. Thacker expertly navigates this character’s arc (which can easily be seen as the most difficult of the three).
It should come as no surprise that veteran actor Michael Shooner gives a beautiful performance as Harold, the unexpected third to what becomes a trio of broken men. Mr. Shooner has an ease on stage which is comforting just as much as it is disquieting, all depending on the character he is playing. Harold is flawed, but well-intentioned. One might find themselves gravitating toward asking the actor for encouragement even after the stage lights have dimmed.
Finally, Carter Bratton offers a tour-de-force performance as Treat, a rough-around-the-edges older brother who often finds himself torn between recklessness in the interest of providing for his household and an unshakable need for justice. Mr. Bratton’s physicality is well-utilized in addition to his grasp of the emotion heavy-lifting involved in being Treat. He is entirely believable as one who doesn’t need anybody most days all while wanting somebody to need him. Bravx to a wonderful ensemble!
The Sweet and Lowdown
No, you do not need to be an orphan in order to understand Orphans. This script taps into emotions we all feel or have felt: isolation, the need for affection, owning one’s mistakes. None of us is perfect and people wrong others every day. The best we can do is try a little harder the next day to be better and accept that not everyone is going to abandon us.
Clifton Players’ Orphans runs now through October 4th, 2026. To purchase tickets, please visit here or at the door at Liberty Exhibition Hall, Northside.
