Coriolanus

Tina Packer &Mary Lee Bednarek

The Lantern Theater Company, located at 10^th and Ludlow Streets, next to St. Stephens Church, is presenting William Shakespeare’s Coriolanus through April 16^th, 2017. One of Shakespeare’s lesser-known works, this production of Coriolanus is so well done that it should be required viewing for all theater-goers, Shakespeare fans and non-devotées alike. Scenic designer Meghan Jones and lighting designer Drew Billiau have designed an intricate set that surrounds the audience.  Actors, always on the move, are backlit as they move from one arena to the next.  Robert Lyons, an accomplished Shakespearean actor, is outstanding as Coriolanus, the superb warrior and patrician who has little empathy for the common man that elects him to counsel. Tina Packer is brilliant as his mother Volumnia. The depth of anguish she portrays seems to emanate from her toes and ebb throughout her body. In addition to the war scenes, there are several hand-to-hand battles. Fight director J. Alex Cordaro has choreographed the most outstanding combat sequences ever to hit the stage. Shakespeare was thinking of class unrest in England when he wrote this piece about class distinctions in the newly formed Republic near Ancient Rome. Keeping in mind the similarity of the polarization of the poor and rich in our society today, this production has war scenes taking place with contemporary weapons. The Lantern continues to uphold its tradition of producing incomparable Shakespearean productions. For more information or tickets, call 215-829-0495, visit online at www.lanterntheater.org, or visit the box office at 10^th and Ludlow Streets, Philadelphia. Pa.

Informed Consent

Lindsay Smiling, Kittson O'Neil &
Samantha Bowling

Lantern Theater Company, located at 10^th and Ludlow Streets in St. Stephen’s Church Theater, is presenting multi-award winning playwright Deborah Zoe Laufer’s Informed Consent through February 12, 2017. Based on true events, Laufer’s drama begins with a high energy cast against a high tech projection background. Kittson O’Neill portrays Jillian, a genetic anthropologist who is charged with determining the cause of the high incidence of diabetes in a remote Indian village at the base of the Grand Canyon. With her life on the line, and possibly her daughter’s, due to a genetic glitch, Jillian has no time for protocol or respect for the tribal members. Her frenetic performance as a self-serving scientist who “only wants to help” is both dynamic and disturbing. Trying to rein her in is Ken, portrayed by Justin Jain, the social anthropologist who recommends her for the diabetes study. Samantha Bowling gives a commanding performance as Arella, the spokesperson for the Havasupai tribe.  Through her we learn that the tribe’s oral history, passed down through the ages, tells of their beginnings at the base of the Grand Canyon. When Jillian discovers migratory patterns that establish the tribe has once lived elsewhere, mass devastation ensues. Lindsay Smiling and Maria Konstantinidis round out this remarkable ensemble cast. Most cast members play several roles and the projections change to denote a change in mood or venue. Characters move across the stage at a feverish pace and sometimes yell out a narration as they are passing through. This insightful production that pits knowledge and modern technology against sacred human values is both fast-paced and thought-provoking. Make plans to see it while seats are still available. For more information or tickets, call 215-829-0395, visit online at www.lanterntheater.org or visit the box office at 10^th & Ludlow Streets, Philadelphia, Pa.

An Iliad

Lantern Theater Company, located in St. Stephens Church, 10^th and Ludlow Streets, is presenting the Philadelphia Premiere of the Obie and Lucille Lortel Award-Winning An Iliad through December 11, 2016. The production stars the inimitable Peter DeLaurier as the Poet and Liz Filios as the Muse, who, together, relate the tale of the war in Troy after it has ended. I was fortunate enough to see this epic presentation with Artistic Director Charles McMahon understudying the role of the Poet. With great care the Poet weaves the tale of the lunacy of  war - eleven years in Troy and still going strong. Through McMahon’s masterful performance the audience witnesses the fury and indignation of Achilles, the rage and ire of Hector and the folly of the gods who intervene. Liz Filios’ muse of epic poetry enhances the Poet’s tale with extraordinary musical and percussive tones. With a variety of instruments representing different characters in the drama, and a wide range of percussive modalities used to enhance the depiction of the events in the war, An Iliad is a feast for the ears. Do not miss this phenomenal production.  For more information or tickets, call 215-829-0395, visit online at www.lanterntheater.org, or go to the box office at 10^th & Ludlow Sts. Phila. Pa. 19107. 

36 Views

Joanna Liao &
Joe Guzman

The Lantern Theater Company, located in St. Stephen’s Church Theater, 10^th and Ludlow Streets, will be presenting the Philadelphia premiere of 36 Views through June 26, 2016.  The title of Naomi Iizuka’s work was inspired by the “36 views of Mt. Fuji”, a set of colored block prints.  The views in question are actually the views that one sees of various pieces of Asian art, the points of views of the various characters, and the views of the audience as  the true nature of the characters are revealed, in much the same manner that an onion’s inner core is seen after many layers are peeled away.  Jorge Cousineau  is the scenic, sound and projection designer. He is beyond a doubt the best that Philadelphia has to offer.  The images that are displayed on sliding screens are not only magnificent, but technically brilliant, as they sometimes morph into one another. The sound effects, too are dazzling, as chocks of wood bang together not only to signal a new scene, but also  to signal a new idea.  Joanna Liao portrays an Asian art specialist, Setsuko Hearn,  while Joe Guzmán  portrays an ambitious art dealer, Darius Wheeler.   He is deliriously happy to have come into contact with a priceless “Japanese pillow book”, which will need authentication.  Bi Jean Ngo is excellent as art restorer  Clare Tsong. Her back story comes to light in the second act.  David Price as John Bell and Angela Smith  as Elizabeth Newman Orr round out the cast.  The story line is a bit confusing at the end of the first act but by the second act, as the audience is allowed to see other views, the realization comes that this is just what the playwright intends. 36 Views is a visually exquisite masterpiece that will have you thinking twice about first impressions.  For more information or tickets, call 215-829-0395, visit online at www.lanterntheater.org or visit the Lantern Box Office at 10^th and Ludlow Streets, Philadelphia. Pa. 19107.

Heroes

The 4 friends preparing for adventure

The Lantern Theater Company, located in St. Stephen’s Church, 10^th and Ludlow Streets, Philadelphia, has done it again. It has ended another spectacular season with a sure-fire hit...the Philadelphia premiere of Tom Stoppard’s Heroes.  Set on a “private” terrace of a veterans’ retirement home, Heroes explores the psyche of 3 World War I veterans, all damaged by the war to some degree.  It is the humor in this adaptation that creeps up on you so unexpectedly.  In the first act we are introduced to Henri, played by Peter DeLaurier, Gustave, portrayed by Dan Kern, and Philippe, portrayed by Mal Whyte.  Oh yes, and the dog, played by a stone statue.  Philippe’s belief that the dog can move is not really funny in the first act, even to the other two veterans,but it can be explained away by the shrapnel which was left imbedded in his head and causes him to have periodic “spells”.   Henri also has physical damage from the war…a crippled leg, but it doesn’t stop him from taking walks to observe the young girls in a nearby girls’ school. Gustave appears very self-possessed and in command until we learn he can barely leave his room, let alone leave the grounds or relate to others.  These revelations are humorous but watch out for the second act.  What was slightly amusing in the first act becomes hysterical with just a slight twist added to the script. It is no holds barred. Nothing is sacred and I found myself laughing almost non-stop as the veterans and the dog plan an excursion. Lighting designer, Janet Embree has done fantastic work- the blackouts are quick and the actors are repositioned on the stage with no one in the audience being the wiser. This show will only run through June 9, so order your tickets immediately if you haven’t already done so. For more information or tickets, call 215- 829- 0395 or visit online at lanterntheater.org.

The Liar

The Lantern Company, located at 10th and Ludlow Streets in Old St. Stephen’s Church, is presenting the Philadelphia Premiere of David Ives’ The Liar . Due to popular demand, the show has been extended through December 9, 2012. A wine tasting event has been added as well on Friday November 30 at 6:30 PM. Expecting to be spellbound by a work translated and adapted by the playwright who gave us New Jerusalem, The Interrogation of Baruch de Spinoza at Talmud Torah Congregation ; Amsterdam, July 27, 1656, I was both taken aback and delighted by this light-hearted farce. It is told in rhyme that is sometimes sublime but with verse sometimes forced or coerced. It matters not.  It is all in good fun.  As in most farces, the story is ridiculous and I laughed myself silly..  Just as  an “aha” moment when one outrageous muddle seems to be explained, another pops up right alongside it.  You have to love the way inveterate liar Dorante, played by Aubie Merrylees, speaks tongue-in-cheek (literally)! The juxtaposition of Dorante, who always lies, with his faithful manservant Cliton, who does not know to, is brilliantly done.  Sarah Gliko and Emilie Krause, playing Clarice and Lucrece are charming in their period dress and coy mannerisms.   Emily Rogge as both Isabelle and her twin sister Sabine plays another crucial role in the farce. Kudos to Meghan Jones, Production Manager and Scenic Designer. Frequent scene changes are done with minimal movement of props on stage. This is simply a delightful; production that will have you leaving the theater with a feel good feeling.  Don't miss out on this  extended opportunity! For more information or tickets, call 215-829-0395 or visit online at www.lanterntheater.org.

 New Jerusalem, The Interrogation of Baruch de Spinoza at Talmud  Torah Congregation: Amsterdam, July 27, 1657

Spinoza and Rabbi

The Lantern Theater Company, located at 10th and Ludlow Streets in St. Stephens Church is bringing back New Jerusalem.... for a return engagement through September 23. A knock-your-socks-off philosophical debate between two of the greatest minds of their times, this presentation, directed by Charles McMahon, far surpasses the excellence of the drama which was enacted by the same cast last year.  Perhaps it is because the actors are more seasoned or more comfortable in their roles. Sam Henderson is very convincing as a young Spinoza who must plead for his freedom of thought while denying that he is a heretic. David Bardeen gives a strong performance as Rabbi Saul Levi Mortera who struggles with the burden of excommunicating his protoge. Seth Reichgott's Abraham van Valkenburgh is disturbingly forceful. The weighty subject matter is evenly tempered with just the right touch of wit. It is a shame there will be no room in Lantern’s schedule to extend the run again this year. There is a special Spinoza Fest this weekend. The Spinoza Fest Pass is available for $85 ($70 for seniors, students and groups of 10 or more) The Pass grants access to all events plus one ticket to any performance of New Jerusalem.     Friday September 7  6:30 PM- Director Charles McMahon will lecture and conduct Q & A on  Spinoza's  impact on modern philosophy and how these ideas shaped Lantern's production.10:30 PM Post-show Discussion- Artists in Conversation with the New Jerusalem cast.  There are many more events scheduled for Saturday and Sunday.  For tickets or more information, visit online at www.lanterntheater.org or call 215-829-0395.

Romeo and Juliet

Friar and Romeo and Juliet

Romeo and Juliet is being produced by the Lantern Theater Company at 10th and Ludlow Streets, Philadelphia, through April 1, 2012. No area theater does a better job of presenting Shakespeare’s plays and this play does nothing to spoil that reputation. Nicole Erb makes her Lantern debut as Juliet. She brings her TV, film and previous theater experience to the role of the young teen who is both giddy in love and passionately angry when she feels thwarted in her attempts to have her own way. The breadth of her emotions is a thrill to watch. Also expressing  great depths of character are Frank X as Friar Lawrence and Ceal Phelan portraying both Juliet’s nurse and Romeo’s father. Leonard C Haas as Lord Capulet gets very volatile onstage and the audience almost cringes in their seats as he rants, so effective are his diatribes. The set is a true work of art thanks to scenic designer Meghan Jones. Not only does it include the requisite balcony for Romeo and Juliet’s well known scene, but an entire castle is built up on the stage with many entrances, exits, arches and stairs.  Actors are frequently running on or off the stage only to reappear a few minutes later in an entirely different spot. A huge courtyard is the scene for more than one sword fight, artfully staged by fight director Alex Cordaro. Costumes genuine to the time period were artfully designed by Mary Folino. Lighting Designer Shelly Hicklin deserves a Barrymore nomination for the outstanding way in which day turns to night through the windows; chandeliers are raised and lowered in the castle to adjust the lighting; and total blackouts are used for scene changes to allow actors to exit the stage unnoticed.  Shakespeare is not always easy to read.  It is, however, easy to love if you attend a production at the Lantern Theater Company. For tickets or more information, call 215-829-0395 or visit online at www.lanterntheater.org.

New Jerusalem, The Interrogation of Baruch de Spinoza at Talmud Torah Congregation:Amsterdam, July 27, 1656

Baruch  de Spinoza's interrogation

The Lantern Theater Company, located at 10th and Ludlow Streets is presenting the Philadelphia Premiere of New Jerusalem, The Interrogation of Baruch de Spinoza at Talmud Torah Congregation: Amsterdam, July 27, 1656, through November 6, 2011.

Spinoza is a member of as small Jewish community who fled Portugal during the time of the Inquisition and landed in the seemingly more tolerant Amsterdam. Sam Henderson, portraying Spinoza, finds himself in the fight of his life when he is not only accused of being an atheist, but also must bear the responsibility of carrying shame for the entire Jewish community if he is convicted.. Threatened with excommunication by his teacher and Rabbi, he tries to convince everyone of the logic of his views, even those that he is “still working on.” This very intense production is sprinkled with laugh lines. Just when you are sitting on the edger of your seat, you have an opportunity for a chuckle. Because the seating in the Lantern Theater is on three sides of the stage, characters move around frequently, somewhat akin to actors in a theater in the round.. It is not an easy task to keep up a great measure of intensity while being on the move; the cast of New Jerusalem manages to accomplish just that. Henderson is very expressive both with his body language and his facial expressions. He does not even need to utter a word to get his feelings across.  Kittson O’Neill, portraying his half sister Rebekah, gives an excellent portrayal of a female who isn’t about to let her brother ruin her life or reputation as a religious Jew. David Bardeen as Rabbi Saul Levi Mortera also has an opportunity to display his fierce emotions as he can not understand the thinking of his once-prized pupil. The set is very simple but effectively reminiscent of a small 17^th century synagogue with a few benches and chairs and an ark to hold the Torah scrolls. Maggie Baker makes her Lantern debut as costume designer and hopefully she will be working on some more productions. The costumes of the women are striking and those of the men are intriguing. This is a potent story and a very powerful production. Be prepared to be enlightened. For ticket information, call 215-829-9002 or visit online at www.lanterntheater.org.