Review: The Barebones Theatre Company's THE SISTERS ROSENSWEIG

It is such a pleasure seeing a play that isn't overly preachy. It makes attending the show feel like a TV sitcom from the 50's or 60's where they concentrate on the material and the actors and their performances and the audience is actually being entertained. This is exactly the case with the Barebones Theatre Company's (BTC) adorable production of Wendy Wasserstein's The Sisters Rosensweig which concludes performances this coming weekend on August 28th at the intimate Northport venue.

The play, cleverly directed by BTC's Artistic Director Lynn Antunovich, tells the tale of three strong-willed sisters with varying outlooks on life, love, and contentment. They are a little older and have each taken different paths in life that work for them. They all want to make their now-deceased parents proud by living up to their expectations, but each has their own sense of rebellion.

The story is a roller coaster of emotions, but these women are truly inspirational. Christine Nelson excellently portrays world traveler/writer Pfeni, the youngest of the Rosensweig sisters. Pfeni seems the most liberal while middle sister Gorgeous, portrayed hilariously by Susan Stein, is the most traditional. Gorgeous consistently brags about her PERFECT husband, ADORABLE children, and her flourishing career as an advice expert on television. She seems the most rooted in their Jewish heritage compared to her sisters. The eldest, Sara, portrayed by Jacqueline Misholy, is a big-wig at a bank with a bright teenaged daughter. Sara and her daughter live in London and both sisters have convened at Sara's house to celebrate her birthday... along with other guests.

The ensemble cast is truly superb as is Ms. Antunovich's creative team.

Jodi McIntyre's set is impressive and relevant for the intimate stage as the company utilizes the Parker Posey Dance Studio. Curtains hang on the back wall, a beautiful grand couch and coffee table are center pieces, and a couple of lush chairs and a wine cart make up Sara's sitting room. This is enhanced wonderfully by Mike Vilsco's lighting and Sue Waiter's costumes.

And so, Wendy Wasserstein's The Sisters Rosensweig is certainly another hit for The Barebones Theatre Company. A story about strong women and a talented cast to bring them to life make for a delightful night of theatre.

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Wendy Wasserstein's The Sisters Rosensweig is presented by The Barebones Theatre Company through August 28th. For more information and to purchase tickets, please call (631) 606-0026 or visit www.barebonestheater.com.

By Wendy Wasserstein, Directed by Lynn Antunovich, Stage Management & Sound Design & Light Operation by Steve Clark, Lighting Design by Mike Vilsco, Costume Design by Sue Waiter, Set & Prop Design by Jodi McIntyre

Starring Shannon Raffaniello, Christine Nelson, Jacqueline Misholy, Steve Ayle, Len DeLorenzo, Susan Stein, Mike Koullias, and Ralph Carideo.

Photo by Jeannie Powers/Frank Carfora

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