Court Theatre's latest production, Tennessee Williams' "The Glass Menagerie" is a stunning retelling of this classic story. The autobiographical work was Williams' first play to make him one of the greats. This is a story of a family: Her husband gone, Amanda's dreams have been crushed, leaving her living in a cramped apartment rather than in a sprawling, gracious Southern Plantation with her children, disappointments both: Tom has a menial job, and Laura, who was ill as a child, spends a great deal of time with tiny glass animal figures. Amanda persuades Tom to bring home a coworker to meet Laura and become Laura's "gentleman caller." The evening unfolds so that even this last paltry dream, one for Laura's future, dies.
Director Charles Newell has assembled a wonderful cast for this production. Mary Beth Fisher is dynamic as Amanda . Chaon Cross handles Laura with an ease that is hard to imagine—she is far different in appearance than one would ever expect. Ned Noyes as the-would-be suitor is fine as well. But this show belongs to Jay Whittaker, who truly makes Tom the dominant character—a storyteller with style and grace who manages to arouse our compassion.
The set by John Culbert is simply stated but very creative, and Marc Stubblefield's lighting is perfect. The music and sound are handled by Chicago favorites Andre Pluess and Ben Sussman whose work blends right into the story, creating the perfect ambience for the audience.
"The Glass Menagerie" runs through April 9th
Court Theatre
5535 S Ellis Ave, Chicago
Reservations: (773) 753-4472
Alan Bresloff writes theater reviews for the Chicago area.
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