Shakespeare & Company, Lenox, MA
through September 10, 2017
by Shera Cohen
“Roman Fever” is billed as a comedy. There is no sidesplitting
laughter from the audience. Instead, comes inner smiles and soft chuckling – exactly
as humor would have been expressed in the days of Edith Wharton a century ago.
However, in the hands of director Normi Noel and adaptor Dennis Krausnick, this
short story comes off the pages, into the psyches of its two female characters,
and then to its receptive audience. The women have known each other for many
years, yet each holds a secret crucial to the welfare of the other.
“The Fullness of Life,” the second play, also deftly written
and designed by Krausnick and Noel, respectively, has an important title. It’s
main character, newly deceased, enters heaven. She is posed with the question
if she has had a full life. Woman (no names are given) professes every reason
that she can think of, stating that, yes, her life has been miserable. And yet,
perhaps not so terrible after all?
Common to both one-act plays are its three actors: Diane
Prusha, Corinna May, and David Joseph; lithe and airy staging; crisp,
no-nonsense dialog with not one word wasted; and a twist ending.
David Joseph, a young old-timer (he’s young, but old to
Shakespeare & Co.) hones his acting, comedic, and singing skills with each
role. He is a joy to watch. Corinna May, a S&Co. regular, has a smooth
voice and statuesque demeanor, both perfect for her roles. In the first play,
there’s just enough edge for the audience to question if her character is as
hurt or as hurtful as she seems.
 |
| Photography by Olivia Winslow |
Diane Prusha is the “star” of both plays. While her role as
Grace in “Roman Fever” is often monosyllabic and without much movement (she
sits and knits), it is her character who is literally center stage, quiet and
commanding. Prusha speaks softly, her Grace is sweet and rather boring. Yet,
her character saves her dialog for the point at which speaking the truth is
crucial. Prusha’s ever present Woman gives numerous profound monologues she
prepares her soul to enter heaven. We watch Prusha’s acting chops, slowly and
assuredly give the meaning of life to her deceased character.
