BWW Reviews: St. Louis Actors' Studio Presents Intruiging Production of THE SHAPE OF THINGS

Controversial playwright/filmmaker Neil LaBute has a unique talent for crafting works that deliver a solid sucker punch to the gut. I can appreciate that approach, and since I'm always on the lookout for something out of the ordinary, I made it a point to check out the St. Louis Actors' Studio production of The Shape of Things. Director Alec Wild's sharp direction combines with a well cast ensemble to bring this provocative and challenging piece to life at the Gaslight Theater.

It would be easy to spoil the plot by revealing too much, so I'll stick to the basic set up. Adam is a shy, introverted student who also works as a security guard at the local art museum. One evening he encounters Evelyn, an art student who's crossed the velvet rope in front of a statue, and who's clutching a can of black spray paint in her hand. Adam's not willing to confront her physically, and instead strikes up a conversation with her, even asking her out. Much to his own disbelief, she accepts, and then enthusiastically carries on with her vandalism after he leaves his post to check out for the night. Once they're together Evelyn immediately begins to makeover Adam through subtle manipulations that stroke his ego. Their Pygmalion-like relationship continues to blossom, and it appears to be having a positive effect as Adam begins to grow more and more self confident. But, something else is also at work here, and even though you may figure it out for yourself, you'll still be provoked to emotion by Labute's writing.

Shanara Gabrielle is intense as Evelyn, holding steadfast to her credo as an artist, and never able to accept uncertainty where opinions, whether her own or those of others, are concerned. Billy Kelly is also very good as Adam, transforming before our eyes from a nerdy, overweight and unattractive young man into something more appealing, at least superficially. Christian Vieira hits the right marks as Adam's jerky, narcissistic friend Phillip. Ann Ashby is simply terrific as Jenny, Phil's fiancee, who actually had a crush on Adam, back when he was too reserved to even notice, much less act upon, his own feelings.

Alec Wild's direction, along with the work of Jef Awada as movement director, keeps this cast focused throughout, and it's amusing to watch the scene changes actually play out while the actors are still in character. The music used to set the mood for each scene is also clever, opening with Bjork's "Human Behavior", and featuring a cool selection of 80's remakes. Scott Neale's set design is stark and changeable, maintaining the gallery feel that opens the action, while commenting thematically as well. Garth Dunbar's costumes fit the characters well, changing subtly just as they do over time.

This is a pretty tight production, and whether you like Labute's writing or not, you have to admire the fact that he can get a rise out you. The St. Louis Actors' Studio's intriguing presentation of The Shape of Things continues through March 7, 2010 at the Gaslight Theater.

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