can I get a small one?

saw The Weir and not only did the Signal Ensemble blow me away once again, it was my first taste of seeing a Conor McPherson play (after having read the majority of his work). I can only say, if you didn't see, you could never know, but if you have the chance go see a show...by Signal or McPherson. good luck.

next up was Rabbit Hole by David Lindsay-Abaire at the Goodman. I was worried at first because although I have much enjoyed what I've read by Abaire, as well as seen, he teeters on the Christopher Durang side, which I don't much care for. Knowing this and knowing that this was not to be a typical Abaire play, walking into the theatre another worry popped up, oh! shit, this is going to be like watching a sitcom. The exceptionally tailored set (an upper middle class suburban home, kitchen and family room with a child's room on the second floor) gave the appearance that I was in for a long night, however, as soon as the action began, I couldn't help but care for these characters and the tragedy they've incurred. the loss of a child is a long standing tale we've seen unfold in many plays, but the immediacy of Abaire's tragedy can be shelved alongside the greats as one that will stang the test of time. the smallest role, but largest impact on me, was that of the teenager who was driving the car that hit the son crossing the street running after the dog. his need for some sort of connection with the parents was both painful and joyful to watch. bravo cast, crew, company and madeline for scoring the tickets.

the final show is only the tail end of what has been an incredible week of celebration for myself. Madeline had a birthday and we spent the week dancing, drinking and having a good time. on Sunday night, we concluded the bash with a trip to Steppenwolf to see the House Theatre's production of The Sparrow. I believe I do the company and the play justice by labeling the show Theatre Emo. If you are familiar with the genre of music, Emo is stuck on a band that "emotes" during much of their performances. Now, there is a difference between emoting and rocking. I'm not going to go into detail about those differences only to say that emoting is the lesser of the two outcomes in my book. Emoting is, in fact, inherent in drama and that is why I say that I do justice by calling The Sparrow this. In this sense, The Sparrow is "performance drama" where Emo bands are "music drama". the play evoked much emotion as well as discussion so it is a recommend piece. i am interested in seeing more from this company as well, but here within lies my premonition...all House shows will remain the same...and for me, this is not good theatre. just like the Blue Man Group who began with a happening of great genius, it has now become a repetitive piece of show. i hope with all hope that the House Theatre will find a way to use all their talent for a new purpose and drive what they are doing through the hearts and soul of humanity, but alas, i am a pessimist and I believe what they will do is drive dollars into their pockets and sell shit that collects in the basement of our country. who knows... i sure as hell don't.

the bottom line is that i prefer literature to spectacle and there is room for both in this world. so, now i'm going to drink a small one and then a few more then I'm gonna get stoned and buy out the store. if i'm lucky i'll fall in a place where there's land. if i'm lucky i'll swallow water and not sand.