Review: THE VIOLIN at 59E59 is an Intriguing Human Drama

"It's all about choices."

by Gio in The Violin

The Violin, now onstage at 59E59 Theaters, is a drama that gives audiences a compelling reason to go to the theatre. Written by Dan McCormick and directed by Joseph Discher, this highly anticipated World Premiere is an intriguing play about three men and how their lives intertwine. The show features the finest staging and superior acting. See it while it is being performed on the Upper East Side stage through October 14.

The Violin is set in Gio's tailor shop, a humble business that he has owned and operated for 50 years in the neighborhood. It is also a place that has become a second home for brothers, Terry and Bobby since they were children. Terry is a slow-witted individual who relies a great deal on Bobby, a temperamental and lawless type. The story takes some interesting turns when Terry finds a valuable 1710 Stradivarius violin in the back of a cab, and the three men scheme to return the musical instrument to the owner for a high price. While they execute a haphazard plan to obtain riches, secrets that have touched all of their lives are revealed. The story is a thought-provoking portrayal of the choices that people make and how these choices influence them.

The Violin has a cast of accomplished actors that completely master their roles. The characters are distinctive and perfectly portrayed with Robert LuPone as Gio; Peter Bradbury as Bobby; Kevin Isola as Terry. They capture the drama, humor and the suspense of this very original story.

The design team includes scenic design by Harry Feiner; costume design by Michael McDonald; lighting design by Michael Adelson; sound design by Hao Bai; properties design by Andrew Diaz. The Production Stage Manager is Rose Riccardi. The show is produced by The Directors Company in association with ShadowCatcher Entertainment. Darren Bagert and Adam Hess serve as the Executive Producers.

The Violin is a play that you will remember long after the curtain call. Make this fascinating human drama a part of your fall entertainment schedule.

The Violin is onstage for a limited engagement through Saturday, October 14. The show runs for 2 hours with one intermission. The performance schedule is Tuesday to Thursday at 7 PM; Friday at 8 PM; Saturday at 2 PM & 8 PM; and Sunday at 3 PM & 7 PM. Performances are at 59E59 Theaters (59 East 59th Street, between Park and Madison Avenues). Single tickets are $25 - $70 ($25 - $49.50 for 59E59 Members). To purchase tickets, call Ticket Central at (212) 279-4200 or visit www.59e59.org.

Photo Credit: Carol Rosegg

To post a comment, you must register and login.