I was fortunate to see Tandy and Cronyn perform this work. Heh, I was a little younger then, but the power of these two fine actors set up the dynamic tension between two people in their twilight years that even a young theatergoer could appreciate. I'll look forward to seeing Tyson and Jones. The age I am now will be a contrasting viewpoint from when I last saw the play.
2
I'm sure I've seen the play in the past, but I confess I wasn't prepared for the ultimate seriousness of the script. I attended the play with expectations of a warm and fuzzy evening, showcasing two great actors who have long ago proven their skills, many times over. I expected a comfortable experience. Mr. Coburn's play, however, is not intended to be comfortable--its early humor lulls viewers somewhat, in keeping with the warm feelings we get from seeing actors who are venerable and yet somehow also familiar "old friends". But things begin to turn fairly early. Mr. Jones' physical and vocal dominance, still very palpable at 84, especially in contrast to Ms. Tyson's petiteness, is genuinely frightening in some moments. What I found fascinating, and truly unnerving, was the audience's reaction to the play. The nearly-full house of mostly baby boomers and older, seemed determined to see a wry comedy, regardless of the actual dialogue or action at times. Even in ominous moments, audience laughter was omnipresent, as if we were seeing farce. Character revelations of shame and disappointment were equally met with big yuks, as if much of the audience was seeing a play it wanted to see, rather than the one they were actually seeing. It was very disconcerting and disappointing, and made me wonder whether Mr. Jones and Ms. Tyson were equally distracted by the inappropriate atmosphere...but...they're pros, after all, and I'm sure they weathered it better than I did.
4
I, too, found the audience reaction inappropriate at times and that troubled me. It was as if they were a tv audience so accustom to situation comedies that they were unprepared to experience a dramatic play. But then. too, there was an element of excitement in the air due to the specialness of the night - an opportunity to see two much-loved greats prrforming together (I believe for the first time!) and so late in their long careers. I think that made for a celebratory occasion and explained all the joy and happiness that was palpable in the theatre. And, yes, I too hoped it didn't annoy these wonderful actors.
What a delightful review and luckily, I already have tickets next month.
1
Designers for this production: set and costume design by Riccardo Hernandez, lighting design by Jules Fisher and Peggy Eisenhauer and sound design by David Van Tieghem.
7
I saw the original cast (Tandy and Cronyn) on tour in Boston in 1977. It is a wonderful play with the right pair. This sounds like a great revival; I wish it would be filmed and presented on PBS after the run is over.
2
I had seen the earlier productions of "The Gin Game" and liked the play.
When tickets for this production were offered through TDF I snapped up the opportunity to see Ms. Tyson and Mr Jones act in the play. I was very moved, not only because the play itself is moving, but because I had the opportunity
to see these very fine actors together on stage. It was a privilege. Roberta Finke NYC
When tickets for this production were offered through TDF I snapped up the opportunity to see Ms. Tyson and Mr Jones act in the play. I was very moved, not only because the play itself is moving, but because I had the opportunity
to see these very fine actors together on stage. It was a privilege. Roberta Finke NYC
3
jessica tandy and her hubby did this so well.
one of the best shows i ever saw.
long ago...
one of the best shows i ever saw.
long ago...
1
Me, too! Unforgettable!
Reviews of Broadway shows used to include all of the design credits. This has been true for at least the 40+ years I've been reading NYT reviews.
What happened? The reviewer mentions the set designer, but not the lighting, costume, or sound designers. Are the performers acting in the dark? Are they naked? Is there no sound?
There's plenty of room online, why has the Times stopped including full credits?
What happened? The reviewer mentions the set designer, but not the lighting, costume, or sound designers. Are the performers acting in the dark? Are they naked? Is there no sound?
There's plenty of room online, why has the Times stopped including full credits?
8
Isherwood is not known for including designers inside the review unless he has something particular to say or he doesn't like what they've done. Brantley and others often do--definitely a classier choice--but I can't remember if the Times always included them in the summary at the bottom. Regardless, they should be in there, without question.
1
And running time is no longer included as well. In this review, Mr Isherwood mentions the running time but it is no longer posted at the end of a review. Why?
1
I was lucky enough to see Charles Durning and Julie Harris do this show on the road and absolutely loved it. I've seen the Hume Cronyn/Jessica Tandy version on PBS. I'd give anything to get to see this version of it!! Kudos to both actors for this accomplishment.
3
Saw it in previews. Absolutely wonderful, house was packed; I did not see anyone in the audience who was not as raptly engrossed as I was. If you can get there - go. Such a privilege to see two virtuoso performances of this caliber. Oh - and I learned to play gin just from watching the play, went home, and trounced my husband, first time out of the gate. True story.
11
Why are designers no longer listed in reviews??? This is a travesty. The paper of record should list the creative team who brought the show to life.
14
I emailed Ben Brantley with the same question. Shows disregard and lack of respect for what the talents "behind the scenes" do. The playwrights, directors and actors aren't the only ones who create the emotions and worlds that audiences respond to.
7
You are correct, of course. May I suggest you take up Opera, where in just about every review, the directors, designers, costumers, etc. are given precedence in reviews over the singers and conducting (unless stars of huge reputations are involved).
Ahh, I wish I lived closer so that I could see these two legends in action.
3
The last theater show visited was with a friend, now a grandmother, to see her young grand-daughter star on Broadway as young Nala in the Lion King. A nightingale, she gave us a tour afterwards and showed me a mask of the lioness with long streamers that were silver tears.
'The Gin Game' might bring this watcher back to the theater. Congratulations Ms. Tyson and Mr. Jones for giving us hope! You both look terrific and thank you for giving some of us a warm smile, as we continue to go on our life journey.