Review: J. Robert Moore is Sheer Perfection in BUYER AND CELLAR

BUYER AND CELLAR, by Jonathan Tolins, is a deliciously dishy piece of theatre that came to life because of Barbra Streisand's book My Passion for Design. The play, a winner of the 2014-2015 Lucille Lortel Award for Outstanding Solo Show, tells you right from the start that the only thing that is the truth about what you will be seeing is that Streisand really does have an underground mall where her possessions and costumes are all displayed... and she is the sole customer.

Alex (J. Robert Moore) is a struggling Hollywood actor who takes the oddest of odd jobs: working in the underground mall at Streisand's Malibu home. He is alone there, trapped between the sounds of the frozen yogurt machine and the popcorn machine, until he has a surprise visit from the Diva herself. They begin to play and bond in the basement; but as their bond deepens, Alex begins to wonder if their budding relationship will ever make it out of that basement. The show is hilariously funny, and a touching examination of the isolation and loneliness of fame.

J. Robert Moore is absolutely brilliant as the underemployed actor. His timing and body language as he portrays multiple characters is impeccable. Moore is so at home and at ease in the character that the end result is that of a good friend telling you a great story. So delightful is his performance that when it ends you wish there was more of Moore.

Nat Miller's direction is so good that it is invisible. He has clearly shaped this piece so that it flows naturally and that every moment rings true. He has clearly helped Moore make all the right decisions. Paul Flint has provided a simple, functional set that serves the proceedings well. K. Eliot Haynes sound and video design sets place and mood through some wonderful projections. Rachel Atkinson lights the production in a way that enhances the work of everyone.

BUYER AND CELLAR is a terrifically told tale of the Good, the Bad and the Barbra...and who doesn't love a good tall tale? I suggest you make reservations as soon as possible, because once word of how great this show is gets out, you won't be able to get tickets.

BUYER AND CELLAR by Jonathan Tolins

Running time: Approximately Two Hours plus a 20 Minute intermission.

BUYER AND CELLAR, playing at Zach Theatre on the Kleberg Stage (202 South Lamar Blvd.). Playing through August 14, 2016. Wednesdays through Saturdays, 7:30 pm. Saturdays & Sundays at 2:30 PM. Tickets http://tickets.zachtheatre.org/

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