BWW Reviews: THE GUARDSMAN at STNJ-A Theatrical Jewel in Madison

"This myth that one can create a perfect illusion, it's just a myth."

-The Guardsman

The Guardsman, a world premiere adaptation, is now on stage at The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey (STNJ) through July 26th. It is an outstanding portrayal of Ferenc Monlar's comedic masterpiece. The theatre's Artistic Director, Bonnie J. Monte directed and adapted the show. Ms. Monte has once again proven her superb talents for presenting plays on the Madison stage that are extraordinary in every respect. Get your tickets now. This show is a real charmer.

Set in Budapest in the early 1900's, The Guardsman tells the tale of one of the country's famous leading men, The Actor who believes that his beautiful wife, The Actress is losing interest in their marriage. Tortured by his insecurity, he tests her fidelity by wooing her disguised as an official guardsman. Longtime family friend, The Critic is also enamored with The Actress. Yet, he reluctantly agrees to go along with The Actor's ruse. Mama, adopted mother to The Actress, makes every effort to maintain order in a home that is wrought with drama and confusion. The clever interplay of the characters makes you wonder who is really being deceived.

While there is a good deal of comedy at the core of The Guardsman, it is a thoughtful portrayal of romantic angst and a real window into the lives of a stage couple. The Actor's trickery makes for moments that are at truly hilarious but at times, tender and touching.

The Guardsman features a remarkably talented cast that makes this summer production a theatrical happening. Jon Barker masters the part of The Actor and assumes the identity of the guardsman with ease. Barker is in complete command of both of these roles whether he is dealing with jealousy or anxiety. Victoria Mack is absolutely captivating as The Actress, a glamorous starlet and a headstrong woman with just the right degree of cunning. Brent Harris does a wonderful portrayal of The Critic, a serious-minded gentleman who is a regular in the household and an integral part of the absurd goings on. Wendie Barrie-Wilson is ideal in the role of Mama, bold and sensible. Rounding out this fine cast is Saluda Camp as the housekeeper, Bette, Sheffield Chastain as The Debt collector, and Noreen Farley as The Usherette.

The creative team has done a marvelous job of bringing The Guardsman to the stage with authentic touches that depict the elegance of turn of the century life. Costume design is by Paul H. Canada, lighting design by Steven Rosen and set design by Brittany Vasta. Steven Beckel is the Special Sound Consultant and Kathy Snyder is the Production Stage Manager. The play has been adapted by Bonnie J. Monte from a translation by Ferenc Molnar's great grand-son, Gabor Lukin who also arranged the musical waltz in the show, "Printemps."

The Guardsman will be performed through Sunday, July 26th at the F.M. Kirby Shakespeare Theatre, 36 Madison Avenue in Madison. The show has a running time of 2 hours and 15 minutes with two intermissions. Individual tickets and subscriptions can be purchased by calling the Box Office at 973.408.5600 or by visiting www.shakespearenj.org.

Photo Credit: Jerry Dalia

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