The good news is that 2011 has already produced a virtually perfect new play. The bad news is that play - Jon Robin Baitz' entertaining and probing "Other Desert Cities," has already ended its way too short run at Lincoln Center's Mitzi Newhouse theater. Word is that any interest in immediately moving this outstanding production to Broadway was squleched by the lack of an open appropriately sized Broadway theater. Too bad, because if this show is eventually mounted on Broadway in the fall as has been rumored, the talented original casts' other commitments will likely prevent this entire dream cast from returning to the show. One can at least hope that Stockard Channing will return to assume the lead matriarchal role of Polly Wyeth, because her career defining performance will unquestionably be the most difficult to replicate with another actress.
Despite the accolades that could be heaped on the actors, director (Joe Montello) and physical production designers of "Other Desert Cities," the highest praise should be reserved for the playwright himself. Indeed, Mr. Baitz has written a funny and moving play populated with characters that are meticulously fleshed out, believable and engagingly complex. There are no good and bad people here - everyone is painted in shades of grey, and the viewer's sympathies are constantly shifting among these charcaters. It all makes for a toxic family brew that is both trenchant and entertaining. Bravo to all involved, and lets get this back up on the boards as soon as possible, and with Ms. Channing repeating her duties, please.
Although not nearly as successful, David Lindsay-Abaire's new Manhattan Theater Club dramedy "Good People" similarly trades in characters who defy characterizations such as "good" or "bad." Similarly, this production features a great cast (led by a wonderful Frances McDormand) and pitch-perfect direction from the immensely talented Daniel Sullivan. But the key difference in quality for me was the fact that while I believed in the genuine nature of the plot points in "Other Desert Cities," the plot of "Good People" felt somewhat contrived and unbelievable at times. I was taken out of the play at times rather than remaining invested in it. Still, it is a worthwhile play given a very fine production.
MTC has another winning production on display at its smaller City Center stage in the form of young scribe Matthew Lopez' civil war era drama "The Whipping Man." Yet another fine cast, led by Andre Braugher and Andre Holland wrings as much as possible out of an interestingly plotted play that nevertheless suffers from some stilted and inauthentic dialogue. But those are quibbles, as I was drawn into the world of this heartfelt and moving drama.
The final show I saw on my trip to New York a few weeks back was Rinne Groff's "Compulsion" at The Public starring the incredibly over the top and annoying Mandy Patinkin. I revere The Public and the mission it performs for theatergoers, so I will say nothing beyond noting that this show too has closed, and if you missed it, consider yourself very fortunate.
