My grandson, who’s majoring in Theater Tech at the School for Creative and Performing Arts, went with me to see the first Conor McPherson play of the season in Cincinnati this week.
Shining City is an Irish play as the Irish see themselves today. No longing for the glory of the past, nor blaming the English – but how do we get through the day today. I loved the point and counterpoint of the lives of the psychiatrist and his client. I loved the set and how it furthered our understanding. I was stricken at the very real and total lack of awareness of the gay prostitute. The gift of an incredibly ornate lamp was a fine point. I’m not sure that any of the characters had really grown or changed during the play, but they had moved on. I’m ambiguous about that final moment.
This play is at the New Stage Collective, on Main Street where 12th runs into it. Alan Patrick Kenny is the guiding spirit. I was looking forward to seeing where the stage would be this time, and where we as the audience might find ourselves. They surprised me again! Good Job to Ed Cohen, the director. And a good play to see for the rest of us.
Next McPherson is at the Ensemble Theatre in October / November: The Seafarer. Make a plan now.