BWW Reviews: Miners Alley Playhouse Stages Masterful and Memorable COLLECTED STORIES

While reading up on the history of COLLECTED STORIES, I was quite surprised to see that, while I adored this tender script and the great word play full of wit, bantor and pain, it had quite a short shelf live on Broadway. I was pleased to see audiences experience a new rebirth of this exceptional show and an appreciation for these amazing characters. The touching kinship and mentorship of these two ladies reminded me of the same relationship found in the award winning play, RED. This play truly is a excellent homage to the process of writing - the passion, the pain, the hunger, and ultimately the drama of it all. This show is summed up perfectly with, "What is art if not the exaggeration of the truth...and it makes for a good story." You fall in love with these two contrasting women from the very beginning and the hero worship of Ruth from student Lisa was so funny. We follow their relationship and the development of Lisa being drawn into each one with their stories both through their written word and their emerging pains from their past. Ruth learning that Lisa was published without her knowledge was an intense foreshadow of the tragedy that was to come. Ruth's monologue of her love affair was absolutely transcendent and made us completely fall in love with her and her pain. While Act One dealt with an undiscovered Lisa, Act Two showed her well on her way to stardom. I loved the role reversal in Act Two as Ruth seeks the approval of Lisa for her new work. This audience was so invested in these wonderful actresses and characters, that when Lisa betrayed Ruth by telling her story, I could actually feel the audience "stiffen" in disapproval of her devious deed (a rare and amazing experience to witness). After that, we were all hungry for the confrontation that was to come and the resulting scene was a ball of intensity and emotion that had everyone at The Edge of their seats. I have to compliment these two stunning actresses on one of the best pairings I have ever had the pleasure of experiencing onstage; elevating this show to an exceptional night of theater!

To praise one is to compliment both of these remarkable actresses on their superb performances. Billie McBride and Devon James performing together truly was a match made in heaven and their natural chemistry and friendship onstage drew the audience into the show even further. I look forward to seeing to seeing these two actresses play along side each other again in future performances (and I don't have to wait long as they will both be seen in STEEL MAGNOLIAS next month)! Billie McBride, as the experienced and disillusioned mentor Ruth was (in my opinion) one of her best performances to date. She was the definition of crotchety at the beginning of the show, but developed a warmth and fondness with Lisa. The kinship and friendship resonated from both of them and touched everyone's heart. The confrontation after the betrayal was some master class acting as Billie exuded all of pain and disappointment into her lines, while remaining in control of the situation. This had the audience enthralled and holding their breath right to the heartbreaking conclusion. Devon James as the bubbly and naive Lisa was a funny and refreshing contrast to Ruth's negativity. Devon also created this beautiful character arch throughout the show while building her characters growth, experience and maturity which made for a standout performance.

Director Robert Kramer was spot on with casting this emotionally charged with these two talented actresses. He also let this memorable story guide itself, and along with the raw chemistry of these performers evolve into the sensational drama that left a lasting impression on everyone in the audience. I also have to commend him for exceptional blocking and utilizing every corner of the stage. The set (by designers Rick Berstein and JoNathan Scott McKean) was simple and yet quite homely and inviting only utilizing the essentials as to not distract from the incredible story. Johathan also took special care to enhance these performances with his lighting and sound design and was effective in his efforts.

Miners Alley raises the bar and their diverse season with this tenderly and expertly executed gem. COLLECTED STORIES is enticing audiences now through July 14th. Miners Alley Playhouse is located in the historic downtown district of Golden, CO. For tickets or more information, contact the box office by calling 303-935-3044 or online at minersalley.com.

Photo Credit: JR Cody Schuyler