Review: CHAROLAIS AT 59E59 Theaters is Engaging Storytelling

Charolais, a unique and engaging production, is now onstage at 59E59 Theaters through September 24. Directed by Bairbre Ni Caoimh, it is written and performed by Noni Stapleton. The one-woman show cleverly captures passion, heartache, and feelings about motherhood from multiple perspectives. The theater's intimate space is the ideal performance venue and the play is captivating from the first minute to the last.

In Charolais, Siobhan is a rural woman working on a farm when she falls in love with the owner, Jimmy and becomes pregnant. But Jimmy's overbearing mother and his dedication to his prized Charolais cow causes Siobhan anguish as she becomes envious for Jimmy's affection. As the story unfolds, there is a series of circumstances that are surprising, heartrending, and at times, humorous.

Noni Stapleton deserves great praise for her portrayal of Siobhan and for assuming multiple parts that include the Charolais. With a flick of her head and a French accent, she brings the cow to life. Stapleton is a master storyteller and her talents are very well employed in Charolais.

The Creative and Production Team has done a great job of bringing Charolais to the stage with costume design by Miriam Duffy; lighting design by Tara Doolan; sound design by Jack Cawley. The Production Stage Manager is Becca Pickett; the Dramaturg is Gavin Kostick; the Producer is Eva Scanlan.

Charolais is a multi award-winning (and Susan Smith Blackburn nominated) play produced by Fishable: The New Play Company. It is a memorable, well-crafted and wonderfully performed piece of theatre. See it while it is on at 59E59 Theaters.

Charolais runs for 65 minutes with no intermission. It will be on performed for a limited engagement through Sunday, September 24. The performance schedule is Tuesday - Thursday at 7:30 PM; Friday at 8:30 PM; Saturday at 2:30 PM and 8:30 PM; and Sunday at 3:30 PM and 7:30 PM. Single tickets are $25 ($20 for 59E59 Members). To purchase tickets, call Ticket Central at (212) 279-4200 or visit www.59e59.org.

Photo Credit: Hunter Canning

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