Stray Dog Theatre closes 2008-2009 season with Albee's EVERYTHING IN THE GARDEN

Though it may have seemed more shocking when it was originally written and staged during the 1960's, Edward Albee's adaptation of Giles Cooper's Everything in the Garden, still packs a healthy punch. Stray Dog Theatre closes their 2008-2009 season with a wonderfully dark and funny production of Albee's work, that's performed by an exceptional cast.

To reveal too much of the plot would be a disservice. Suffice to say, it centers on a couple in the suburbs who are wallowing in a debt created by their attempts to keep up with their neighbors. Jenny and Richard are struggling to maintain their relationship, while wrestling with money issues that threaten to consume the pair. Though Jenny is perfectly willing to work, Richard's old fashioned values prevent him from even considering her offer. A solution arrives in the person of Mrs. Toothe, an old English lady who provides Jenny with a means to earn the cash she so desperately desires. You see, she has a green thumb, and a burning desire to have a greenhouse erected. But, I won't spoil it by divulging anymore.

Julie Layton is a nice fit for the role of Jenny. She projects a vulnerability that gives depth to her portrayal of this frustrated housewife and mother. Her willingness to go along with Mrs. Toothe's offer seems dubious at best, but Layton pulls off the conceit with a cool and controlled performance. As her husband Richard, Charlie Barron is a marvel. His intensity slowly ratchets upward as the plot is set in motion, and he's riveting to watch as he gradually comes apart at the seams.

Donna Weinsting is a model of British restraint as Mrs. Toothe. Her flawless logic compels those around her to follow her down a rather sordid path. Zach Huels is properly concerned as their son, Roger, back from school and thoroughly confused over the sudden tension between his parents. Justin Ivan Brown is good as Jack, a wealthy, and tipsy friend of the couple who likes to pop in from to time to act as narrator.

Solid support is provided by Katie Puglisi, Casey Boland, Jessica Bartz, Luke Lindberg, Jennifer Zoole and Mark Zoole, who amuse and confound as the neighbors invited to the garden party.

Gary Bell's assured direction and period-perfect costuming expertly captures the mood and attitudes of suburbia in the 1960's. Jay Hall and Justin Been contribute a totally mod set design filled with retro furniture and colored panels that wouldn't look out of place in a modern art gallery. Tyler Duenow's lighting is understated and effective.

Though the antics of a group of "desperate housewives" may seem a little old hat at this point, you'll be pleasantly surprised by the quality, and timeliness, of the dialog that Albee dishes out. This is seriously hilarious stuff that will make you think as well as laugh.

Everything in the Garden continues through June 20, 2009 at the Tower Grove Abbey. Call 314-865-1995 for ticket information. And, be sure to check out the upcoming 2009-2010 season, which begins in July.

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