BWW Reviews: MY NAME IS ASHER LEV - A Stunning Production

BWW REVIEW: "MY NAME IS ASHER LEV"- a STUNNING PRODUCTION!
By Aaron Posner, based on a novel by Chaim Potok
Directed by T. Scott Wooten
July 19, 2013 at 8:00P.M.

What is it to be an Artist? Any type of creative, passionate, artist? What kind of commitment does it take? What would you, as an artist, "give up" to follow your dream?

In American Stage Theatre Company's current production of "MY NAME IS ASHER LEV", a choice is brought to the forefront. "What would you give up to follow your dream, your passion? How can you choose between Art and Faith and Family?

We have seen variations of this dramatic component of breaking "Traditions", before in other Jewish themed productions. In "Fiddler on the Roof", the most devastating challenge, is when third daughter Chava, leaves her family and her faith to marry a Russian. In "Yentl", a young woman. disguised as a young man, leaves her family and homeland to gain the freedom to study her faith. In "The Jazz Singer", young Jakie, (the son of a cantor), leaves his family and home, to be a jazz singer.

American Stage Theatre Company has once again produced a stunning, ambitious production. How fortunate we are, to reside in the Tampa Bay area, to be able to experience professional, top quality, new productions (it is still running Off-Broadway) at a professional, top quality regional theatre, at an astonishing reasonable ticket price. You will "get all of this and more", at the American Stage Theatre Company's production of "MY NAME IS ASHER LEV".

"MY NAME IS ASHER LEV", is based on a 1972, semi-autographical novel by Chaim Potok; adapted for the stage by Aaron Posner. It is still running off Broadway and won the 2012 Outer Critics Circle Award for "Outstanding New Off-Broadway Play".

In "MY NAME IS ASHER LEV", young Asher, has a great passion to be a painter; which brings him tremendous challenges, as the only child of a "traditional", Hasidic, Jewish family.

The story is a compilation, of intriguing narratives and vignettes, set in Brooklyn, New York, post World War II. It revolves around the journey (through the conflicts and dilemmas), in the self-discovering life of artistic genius, Asher Lev, from age 6 through 25. His compulsive, obsessive, desperate need to draw and to paint, becomes an obstacle between him, his family, and his faith.

The cast is outstanding, Chris Crawford gives a vibrant, memorable, multi-level performance as Asher Lev. Mr. Crawford giftedly, plays ages 6 through 25, with focus and honesty. Bravo!

Brian Webb Russell, an accomplished actor, gives an impressive, engaging, performance in multiple roles, as "The Men", in this production. As Asher's rigid, Orthodox Jewish father, Mr. Russell is precisely intense and controlling. He also plays the gracefully aging Rebbe, with clear understanding. As Asher's uncle, he is everyone's favorite relative, perfectly kind, supportive, and encouraging of his young nephew's talents. And as Jacob Kahn, Mr. Russell pulls out all the stops, creating a believable, temperamental, extraverted, artist and mentor to Asher. Bravo!

Georgina McKee skillfully transforms into (3 roles), as "The Women". Ms. McKee, vividly takes a dramatic turn in an emotionally charged performance as Rivkeh, Asher's devoted mother. She is perfectly lucid and poised as the artist model; and supremely sophisticated, as the socialite art collector. Bravo!

Kudos to Director T. Scott Wooten who has staged an artistically delicate, compassionate, and compelling production. Mr. Wooten's intermittent use of recorded piano and violin music, superbly underscored dramatic moments. Scenic and property design by Jerid Fox was innovative, appropriately uncomplicated, and easily took on many different locales. Mr. Fox's use of blank paper and empty framed art was brilliant, allowing the audience to use their own imagination. The effective lighting design by Megan Byrne, gave focus and tone to the production. Costumes by Adrin Erra Puente were period and well tailored. Stage Manager Karla Hartley kept the play running seamlessly.

In this storyline, Asher Lev is a member of the Jewish culture, however the message of this piece is universal. It is about acceptance, hope, and belief in yourself, and in your talents, (whatever they may be).

On a personal note, as an artist myself, I understand and I relate to Asher Lev's struggle all too well. I know the heartfelt cry of desperation, in trying to explain my overwhelming passion to be an artist. I understand the frustration, in again and again, trying to express myself to the limitations of inexperienced souls and to the deaf ears, caught in the vice of traditional values. I also had to make a choice. I am an Artist.

After experiencing this thought-provoking, enlightening, life-changing play, I have come to realize that "ASHER LEV" is our hero, and he lives in the heart of all of us artists, who stand up for the truth, and for our beautiful, unique, self.

DON'T MISS THIS STUNNING PRODUCTION!
There is brief nudity: (a model posed for a painting).

Running time - 85 minutes without and intermission
American Stage Theatre Company is located at the Raymond James Theatre,
163 3rd Street North in the heart of downtown St. Petersburg, Florida.

For tickets, please call the American Stage Box Office at (727) 823-PLAY (7529)
The next production at American Stage, is "ART", By Yasmina Reza Translated by Christopher Hampton - August 7 - Sept. 8

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