BWW Reviews: The World Premier of CONVICTION at Bay Street Theatre

It is always exciting to be able to say "I saw it first". It is a favorite aphorism amongst New Yorkers. You, too, will have that opportunity attending the new, up-and-coming play Conviction by Carey Crim performing through June 15th at the lovely Bay Street Theatre of beautiful Sag Harbor, Long Island.

Directed by newly appointed Artistic Director Scott Schwartz - in his first Main Stage season with Bay Street - this gripping story depicts an archetypal suburban family putting their lives back together after an unsuspected turn of events. Though more layers of the heinous situation could have been deliberated, the question Ms. Crim seems to tackle is if you are able to forgive someone you're close with after they are convicted of a horrible crime when it is a he said/she said game.

A solid cast carries the show ideally lead by Stage, Film, and TV stars Garret Dillahunt and Sarah Paulson.

Mr. Dillahunt portrays Tom Hodges, a beloved husband, father, friend, and teacher; instantly likeable. However, a student accuses Tom of crossing a line which takes everyone aback. Ms. Paulson is also a rock of the cast giving a moving performance as Leigh, Tom's wife. She is emotional, yet strong, sticking by her husband, but the damage has been done on their marriage and family. Daniel Burns also gives a striking performance as Tom and Leigh's son Nicholas, a happy-go-lucky teenager... at first. Upon Tom's arrival home after his three-year incarceration, we find him dark and distant. Along with Brian Hutchison and Elizabeth Reaser - portraying Tom and Leigh's friends Bruce and Jayne - they each make character relatable.

Anna Louizos' efficient set is a multi-level stage that well represents an upper-middle class home. She's a nurse and he's a teacher. They shift things around easily as the family downsizes in Act Two. It is lighted well by Mike Billings with morose music - done by Bart Fasbender - playing between scenes for atmosphere.

Overall, you will enjoy Ms. Crim's new play Conviction. I am excited to see how this continues to develop as, like I mentioned earlier, it seems more layers of this situation could be discussed and leave you more affected. Ms. Crim, Mr. Schwartz, and everyone involved should be proud on a job well done thus far.

Conviction is presented by the Bay Street Theatre of Sag Harbor, Long Island, through June 15th. By Carey Crim, Directed by Scott Schwartz, Scenic Design by Anna Louizos, Lighting Design by Mike Billings, Costume Design by Jessica Ford, Original Music & Sound Design by Bart Fasbender, Props Design by Kathy Fabian, Stage Management by Jessie Vacchiano. For more information and to purchase tickets, please call (631) 725-9500 or visit www.baystreet.org.

Photos by Jerry Lamonica

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