BWW Reviews: The East Coast Premiere Of FIVE PRESIDENTS At The Bay Street Theatre

I always say that the mark of a good story can make us alter the way we think. In attending the East Coast premiere of Five Presidents at the Bay Street Theatre, by way of the Arizona Theatre Company and Milwaukee Repertory Theatre, I actually found myself sympathizing, if slightly, for people that I, frankly, don't like... politicians.

Emmy winner Rick Cleveland (The West Wing, House Of Cards, et. al.) has created a smart and compelling play running through July 19th at the gorgeous Sag Harbor, Long Island venue.

The tale takes place in a VIP suite at the Nixon Library on the day of Richard Nixon's funeral in 1994 just before services are about to begin. Former Presidents Gerold Ford, Jimmy Carter, Ronald Regan, George H.W. Bush, and current President Bill Clinton are in attendance to pay their respects and to speak at the funeral. This is a huge moment as it is not often that this "exclusive club" gets to meet. Throughout the one act production, they discuss the stresses of having the highest job in the land and the repercussions after they leave office. This is indeed an interesting piece as these are fictional conversations, but it is plausible and they use actual events - Watergate, Vietnam, high deficits, Iran, and other events are mentioned.

Director Mark Clements leads the extraordinary ensemble cast comprised of John Bolger (Ford), Mark Jacoby (Bush), Martin L'Herault (Carter), Steve Sheridan (Regan), and Brit Whittle (Clinton) with Reese Madigan as Special Agent Mike Kirby (security for the presidents).The entire cast is absolutely stellar. While the Presidents remain cordial, some bickering and fighting ensues; particularly discussing if the "mess" left by the ousted President is inherited and who is to blame. It is truly fascinating the valid arguments they raise even with so many people disapproving of the government. The tension mounts as some subjects are still a sore spot. Also, there was a poignant moment when Ronald Regan went off on a tangent which marked his early stages of Alzheimer's disease.

Also a highlight is Todd Edward Ivins wonderful set. Making great use of the stage, a mini bar stands in back of the meeting room with several small tables, and a large window that "looks down onto the street". This is enhanced wonderfully by Jesse Klug's lighting with special kudos to Lauren Wilde (makeup) and Mary Folino (costumes) for a fantastic overall look of the production.

And so, Five Presidents is indeed another hit for the Bay Street Theatre continuing their mission of fostering new works. This is Bay Street's second show for their 2015 season and their third new work in a year. A wonderful cast, enthralling story, and the beautiful Bay Street Theatre make for a truly thrilling night of theatre.

Five Presidents is presented by the Bay Street Theatre of Sag Harbor, Long Island, through July 19th. By Rick Cleveland, Directed by Mark Clements, Set Design by Todd Edward Ivins, Lighting Design by Jesse Klug, Costume Design by Mary Folino, Sound Design by Brian Jerome Peterson, Makeup Design by Lauren Wilde, Stage Management by Richelle Harrington Calin. Bay Street's exciting season continues August 4th with Grey Gardens starring Rachel York and Betty Buckley. For more information and to purchase tickets, please call (631) 725-9500 or visit www.baystreet.org.

Photo from L to R: Brit Whittle, Mark Jacoby, Steve Sheridan, Martin L'Herault, and John Bolger in Five Presidents at the Bay Street Theatre

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