CRITIC’S PICK
Orson’s Shadow
by Austin Pendleton
Pasadena Playhouse
through February 17

This is a gem of a play for anyone who has a passion for the theatre, especially actors. Briefly, Orson Welles (Bruce McGill) and Laurence Olivier (Charles Shaughnessy in a stunning performance), 2 egomaniacal giants in the acting world, meet up to work circa 1960 at the Royal Court Theatre in London through the encouragement of critic and friend Kenneth Tynan (Scott Lowell in a marvelous full-out character turn). Not only are we treated to the insecurities of Olivier and Welles, but also to the demented fragility of Vivien Leigh (lucid work from Sharon Lawrence).

The only sane member of the company seems to be Joan Plowright (solidly played by Libby West) who serves to support the others and act as a buffer when needed to prevent catastrophes, however mild. Rounding out the cast is Nick Cernoch as Sean, the Irish lad who becomes stage manager for the production of Ionesco’s Rhinoceros that Welles is supposed to be directing. Cernoch’s innocence, wit and timing add miles of humor.

Directed with panache by Damaso Rodriguez, Pendleton’s sharp and witty exchanges provide a thoroughly entertaining evening of theatre. It is his insightful understanding of these characters that makes the play so damn riveting. You actually feel that you’ve spent time in the presence of these people, who on the surface, seem superior, but when it comes right down to brass tacks, are as weak, idiotic and silly as the rest of us. Shaughnessy’s confusion in the rehearsal scene is uproarious and will strike a chord with any actor that has struggled with his character’s motivations. Exaggerations aside, we’ve all been there.

5 stars