BWW Reviews: ANGELS AND MINISTERS OF GRACE - A Poignant New Play at NJ Rep Through 11/23

New Jersey Repertory Company (NJ Rep) continues their successful theatre season with the World Premiere of Angels and Ministers of Grace now onstage through November 23rd. With superb direction by Marc Geller, area audiences will be fascinated by the intriguing portrayal of a loving but dysfunctional family. This new play is written by Elaine Smith who has created a thoughtful and touching piece about the human condition and a complex family dynamic.

Rural life in the South is especially difficult for a trio of siblings who are struggling with issues of loss, health concerns and the pressures of day to day living. There are angels among them, seen and unseen, who can make all the difference in their futures.

The individuals in Angels and Ministers of Grace are distinctive. Miriam, played by Dana Benningfield, seems to be the stable force in the family who manages their practical affairs. Arletta, played by Maureen Silliman, is Miriam's mystical and eccentric sister often preoccupied with the artistic angels she creates. Jimmy Ray, played by David Van Pelt is the unruly brother and the youngest of the three siblings. Franklin Robie played by James Earley is Miriam's ex-husband who is very concerned about her.

The interaction of the characters in Angels and Ministers of Grace is remarkable and the cast captures their respective roles perfectly. There's a true bond between sisters Miriam and Arletta, but the tension between the two women escalates as they must deal with their fears and frustrations. Jimmy Ray's impulsive behavior is contrasted by unexpected good reasoning and a true love for his sisters. And it is Franklin Robie who tries repeatedly to reach out to this family he was once an integral part of.

NJ Rep's fine creative team brings the world of Angels and Ministers of Grace to life with scenic design by Jessica Parks, lighting design by Jill Nagle, sound design by Merek Royce Press and costume design by Patricia Doherty.

NJ Rep has departed from the comedic tenor of recent shows with Angels and Ministers of Grace. The play is an emotional journey but it is also laced with humorous and sincere moments that every family can relate to. Bring your friends and see it. It is a piece of theater you will reflect upon again and again.

New Jersey Repertory Company is located at 179 Broadway in Long Branch, New Jersey. For more information about the theater or to purchase tickets for Angels and Ministers of Grace, visit www.njrep.org or call (732) 229-3166.

Photo Credit: SuzAnne Barabas

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