Shakespeare & Company, Lenox, MA
through September 15, 2013
by Shera Cohen
Photo by Kevin Spraugue |
Playwright Martin McDonagh may have become Ireland’s version
of prolific Neil Simon. With no offence to the latter, this Gaelic writer
continuously succeeds at grabbing the human condition, balancing it with humor
and outright pain. “The Beauty Queen of Leenane” is similar in text to
McDonagh’s other works – raw and raunchy, poignant and pathetic. This play,
however, offers a meaty mystery plot which attracts its audience more so than
the author’s pieces which stress humorous dialogue over storyline.
At its core, “Beauty Queen” is the dysfunctional
relationship between mother and daughter. The location (on this well designed
set) is a home in rural Ireland. The mother, portrayed as a disgusting and
conniving creature that clings to her daughter, who has her own problems in
addition to caring for mom. Maureen shouts, “You’re old and you’re stupid!”
Mother Mag retorts with constant belittling. This is not a pretty play.
What a difference an excellent director makes in executing a
production. Matthew Penn’s movement of characters in perfect timing with the
lilting and oftentimes poetic language takes “Beauty Queen” steps above what
the play could have easily slid into – uncomfortable audience laughs and
groans. In spite of this saga of “creature” and her offspring on the road to
becoming cliché, these are two actual people. The audience needs to know their
stories and outcomes.
The same truth applies to casting decisions. No two actors
on the Berkshire scene could have portrayed this duo better. Pairing Elizabeth
Aspenlieder (Maureen) and Tina Packer (Mag) is an equally talented match.
Aspenlieder has taken on a role atypical of most of her prior characters at
this venue where she is the resident female protagonist, often frothy and on a
mission. Aspenlieder’s “Beauty Queen” mission is survival, portrayed with
heartache, longing, and corruption.
Tina Packer, donned in an ugly wig and unwashed nightgown,
plays Mag as the epitome of harsh, unsympathetic, and formidable. Mag’s weak
mannerisms unmistakably convey power and control. For two-hours, Packer becomes
Mag.
In smaller, yet extremely significant roles are the men:
David Sedgwick (the beaux) whose gentleness and understanding is beautiful to
watch and Edmund Donovan (young neighbor) whose combination of charm and
exasperation is delightful.
This summer’s repertoire at Shakespeare & Company has
presented exceptional plays, emphasizing “& Company” part of the venue’s
title. In addition to “Beauty Queen” were “Heroes,” “Mother Courage,” and
“Master Class.”