Fans of Art House Productions who witnessed the stunning adaptation of Tennessee Williams’ “Camino Real” last year are in for a real treat with this year’s multi-media production of “Sea Story.”
The play features all the colors one has grown to expect from the acclaimed company (such as dance, film, and music aspects flawlessly incorporated into a piece), yet takes it to another level as the audience is part of the action.
But even if you haven’t seen previous work, “Sea Story” is an outstanding work of truly innovative theater that has classical themes such as a sea adventure, yet pushes the boundaries by incorporating contemporary issues like homosexuality, bigotry, and more.
This original, collaborative play was written by the talented members of Art House Productions including: Katherine Damigos, Christine Goodman, Jack Halpin, Richard Kirkwood, and Judy Nunez.
The play, which opened last weekend in Jersey City, runs Thursday to Saturday until June 28 at 8 p.m. at Art House theater at 1 McWilliams Place, near Hamilton Square Park.
An adventure in theater
At the start of the show, ticket-holders are invited to find seats, which turn out to be in the middle of the theater. The fabulous set design by Tommy Halpin, Jack Halpin, Nyugen Smith, and Lynn Maffessoli, which is constructed as areas on a ship, gives one the feeling that they are on open water as they view the prow of the ship and the crow’s nest from the inside.
Adding to that feel is the staging and direction of the actors by Director Jack Halpin who has wisely put the audience in the center and directed this piece as theater in the round.
The action takes place in every imaginable space and gives the audience a chance to test their own sea legs as they are invited to stand or spin their chairs around the place to view all angles.
A sea worthy cast
The tight-knit ensemble cast is delightful in this production. The crew of the ship – all misfits in their own way – has signed on “for adventure” and travel wherever the whims of their captain takes them.
Christine Goodman, founder of Art House Productions, stars as Margaret Mayfair St. James, the captain and owner of the 17th century vessel.
The crew features First Mate McKenzie (played by Helene Taylor), Billie (played by Janice Ducate), Evelyn (played by Jen Ponton), Hopper (played by Katherine Damigos) and Malachy Orozco as “Bob” the only male among the all-female crew, who all wear provocative sea wench outfits – complete with the bodice and boots. The talented cast members each bring to life their varied characters. There is the innocent Evelyn; Jersey girl Billie, who leaves behind a husband and drudgery; the hyper, hostile, yet fiercely loyal Hopper; straight forward and sharp-eyed McKenzie; and the poet Bob, who likes to wear women’s clothing and talk in rhyming verse.
While at dock in Crabcake Bay, Valerie (played by Maggie Cino), answers an ad that asks for crewmen “looking for adventure.” Although seemingly down on her luck and walking with a slight limp, Valerie says that she is more than capable to handle the heavy lifting requirements.
She is delayed however, when the Harbormaster (played with aplomb by Ron Leir) tells McKenzie that the boat has to shove off since Crabcake Bay doesn’t allow “whores.”
Captain Margaret glides down from the prow of the ship to correct the Harbormaster, who becomes apologetic when he realizes that the captain is none other than Margaret Mayfair St. James, the famous inspirational writer.
Goodman literally commands attention as Captain Margaret with her sonorous voice and sweeping Victorian dress. She is perfectly cast as the confident captain. Part healer, part guru, and part crazy, Captain Margaret tells her crew that they “are all sisters” and orders members to “testify” each time before they cast off for sea.
Fast-paced
The show comes in under 90 minutes with no intermission, but chances are you won’t notice the time as there are no wasted minutes. The script is fast-paced and moving and is sure to keep audience members engrossed in the unfolding drama.
Other members of the cast and crew include: Judy Nunez, David Ribyat, and Carlo Fiorletta.
This event was made possible with the generous support of their sponsors, Exter Properties and Hamilton Square.
“Sea Story” runs June 19, 20, 21, 26, 27, and 28, with all performances at 8 p.m. at Art House theater at 1 McWilliams Place, Sixth floor, in Jersey City.
The cost per ticket is $20 and discounts are available for seniors. Tickets are limited so reservations are recommended. For more information, call (201) 915-9911 or visit: www.arthouseproductions.org.
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