Review: BENEATH THE GAVEL at 59E59-An Exciting Theatrical Experience

"The only barrier to entry is your pocketbook."

-Beneath the Gavel

A one of a kind show is now in town. Beneath the Gavel is being performed at 59E59 Theaters through April 9th. Devised by Bated Breath Theatre Company and written and directed by Mara Lieberman, this fascinating, fast-paced production is a rare glimpse into the art world. It is an immersive theatrical experience that gives audience members an opportunity to raise their paddles and make bids on pieces of art using the currency provided. Gather your group and head over to the Upper East Side for this unique show that is not only vastly entertaining but realistic and informative.

In Beneath the Gavel, Haddie Weisenberg is a private collector whose treasured works by artist Daniel Zeigler are being auctioned. Weisenberg is credited with discovering Zeigler and fostering the early progress of his career. They also had a personal relationship, one that inspired his creativity. Among the pieces being made available to the public are Zeigler's Sarah in Blue, 2003; Gravity, 1997; and Haddie Without Shawl, 1990. And as the auction house executes the sale, audience members learn the ins and outs of the art brokerage business.

Beneath the Gavel has a multi-talented troupe that includes Gabriel Aprea as Geoffrey Thompson; Missy Burmeister as Tracey Allister; Corey Finzel as Daniel Zeigler; Sean Hinckle as Stuart Felso; Moira O'Sullivan as Charlotte McHenry and Debra Walsh as Haddie Weisenberg. The cast deftly also assumes multiple roles to create the mood and setting for the show.

Beneath the Gavel has outstanding special effects and visuals along with inventive elements like captivating dance segments. The Creative team has done a fantastic job of bringing the production to the stage. They include scenic design by Timothy Golebiewski; costume design by Gail Fresia; lighting design by Jen Rock; choreography by Julia Veron, Missy Burmeister, and Gabriel Aprea; dramaturgy by Fiona Kyle. The Auction Consultant is Barbara Strongin; Dialect Coach is Jennifer Scapetis-Tycer; Production Consultant is Ed Hogan; Production Stage Manager is Elizabeth Ramsay; Assistant Stage Managers are Kristie Moschetta and Shelby Demke. The Production Team includes Production Manager, Tate Burmeister; Press Representative DKC/O&M -Scott Braun and Michael Jorgensen; Props Assistant is Moira O'Sullivan; Tour Manager is Ayla Davidson and the Technical Director is Tonianne DiFilippo.

See Beneath the Gavel. For the cost of a show ticket, you'll be able to experience the thrill of being a part of a high-end art auction the likes of Sotheby's or Christie's. This is an enthralling piece of finely tuned, interactive theater.

Beneath the Gavel is being performed on a limited engagement through April 9th at 59E59 Theaters located at 59 East 59th Street (between Park and Madison Avenues) New York, NY 10022. The show runs for two hours with one intermission. The performance schedule is Tuesday to Thursday at 7:15 PM; Friday at 8:15 PM; Saturday at 2:15 PM & 8:15 PM; and Sunday at 3:15 PM. Tickets are $35 ($24.50 for 59E59 Members). For more information and ticketing, call 212.279.4200 or visit http://www.59e59.org/.

Photo Credit: Will Gangi

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