To close out its 2023-2024 season, Falcon Theatre is presenting The Other Place by Sharr White. This reviewer is going to stay spoiler-free as this is a play best enjoyed going in a wee bit cold. As an amuse-bouche, Falcon’s site offers the following synopsis: “Just as Juliana Smithton’s research leads to a potential breakthrough, her life takes a disorienting turn. One step at a time, a mystery unravels as contradictory evidence, blurred truth and fragmented memories collide in a cottage on the windswept shores of Cape Cod.”
The Production and Creative Team of The Other Place
This is a complicated script that can easily be confusing, but luckily Piper N. Davis is at the helm. Ms. Davis’ direction is nothing short of excellent: the audience is kept on the edge of their seat through solid pacing along, with peaks and valleys in all the right places. Complementing the frenetic energy of the script, Scenic & Lighting Designer Ted Weil makes the brilliant choice to keep the set simple and the lighting design decisive. Costume Design by Rachel Scardina is also commendable. We pay very little attention to what the actors are wearing–which is exactly as it should be. (When you see the flow of the production, you will understand the importance of costumes NOT being a hinderance.)
The Performing Artists
In addition to her direction, Ms. Davis has excellent casting skills. A four-person cast with one character who is on stage at all times can be very tricky, but she nails it. The ensemble works well together and navigates the shift of timelines exceedingly well.
I will admit I was troubled that the casting of the lead character, Juliana, was not entirely correct in regard to what age she should be portraying. However, my concerns were quickly assuaged after seeing Elizabeth Durham perform. What a powerhouse! It is likely Ms. Durham sleeps soundly after every performance because there is no doubt she is spent every time. There is a fine line between confident and confused which much be held in this role and she does it like a champ. He performance is enthralling from start to finish.
Returning to the Falcon stage after something of a hiatus, David Levy shares his undeniable talents as Ian, Juliana’s husband. Mr. Levy displays the plethora of emotions of a husband and father experiencing heartbreak. Casting an actor so utterly real and relatable is a godsend for us all.
Juggling a series of different roles are Anna Hazard and Ben Dudley, (The Woman and The Man). Ms. Hazard and Mr. Dudley excel at character changing and, like Mr. Levy, deliver. Their very physicality changes with every person they portray. Truly, this cast is upper-echelon.
Overall
Admittedly, I have been looking forward to seeing The Other Place since watching an interview with Laurie Metcalf who originated the role of Juliana off-Broadway. Her words were “…the less you know walking in, the more you’ll enjoy the production.” For the most part, the internet seems to respect those words as it can be hard to find a plot description with any sort of depth. This is a ride that lasts a mere 90 minutes, but every moment is enthralling.
In addition, The Other Place touches on so many topics: the pressures of success, marriage and family relations, health and wellness. I highly recommend this show if you’re looking for a strong and original script and some incredibly talented artists.
Tickets to The Other Place
Falcon Theatre’s The Other Place runs now–only through May 18th. With only one weekend left, be sure to reserve your seats immediately. Contact the Falcon Box Office today.
