‘A View From the Bridge‘ at Laguna Playhouse would make Arthur Miller proud in what could easily be the show of the year, running from now through November 17, 2024.
The company of ‘A View From the Bridge’, by Arthur Miller, directed by David Ellenstein and now playing at the Laguna Playhouse in Laguna Beach, CA.
Having experienced ‘A View From the Bridge‘ at Laguna Playhouse for the first time, I can confidently say it’s one of the most powerful theatrical productions I’ve ever seen. This gripping drama by Arthur Miller, directed by David Ellenstein, has brought to life with such intensity and precision that I found myself on the edge of my seat from beginning to end. It’s clear to see how ‘A View From the Bridge‘ inspired films like ‘American Beauty‘—the themes of immigration, family dynamics, sacrifice, and moral complexities are masterfully portrayed with only a six person cast. This is one of the finest theatrical experiences I’ve had, and I only wish I could give it 7 stars.
The standout performance comes from Richard Baird as Eddie Carbone, a man whose flaws and deepening moral decline are laid bare in this intense family drama. Baird’s portrayal of Eddie was so utterly convincing that at times, I was tempted to run on stage and confront him myself for his horrid behavior. Eddie’s jealousy, anger, latten desires and misplaced sense of honor are portrayed with such raw emotion and believability that you can’t help but feel deeply conflicted about his character. The only slight nitpick I have is that during an early dinner scene, Baird makes the Sign of the Cross with his left hand instead of his right—something he later confessed to in a conversation post-show, that he’s left-handed. But honestly, if that tiny detail is the only negative to be said of his performance, then we know we’re in for an incredible ride.
Equally impressive is Lowell Byers as Marco, the stoic and silent cousin of Margot White’s Beatrice who embodies the masculine ideal of hard work and sacrifice for family. Byers perfectly captures the essence of a man who doesn’t speak much, but whose actions and presence shatter decibels. His calm, grounded portrayal contrasts beautifully with Eddie’s growing volatility, and when Marco finally does speak, it is with such intensity that you can feel the weight of his character beyond his breaking point.
Frank Corrado, Lowell Byers, Marie Zolezzi and Coby Rogers star in, ‘A View From the Bridge’, by Arthur Miller, directed by David Ellenstein and now playing at the Laguna Playhouse in Laguna Beach, CA.
Meanwhile, Frank Corrado shines as Alfieri, the honorable lawyer whose noir-style narration acts as the glue holding the play together. His insightful commentary draws the audience in, providing essential context and emotional resonance that heightens the overall impact of the story.
White’s portrayal of Beatrice is equally stunning, as she skillfully balances feminine strength and wifely loyalty, capturing the intricacies of her character’s struggles and devotion. Marie Zolezzi brings a youthful innocence to Catherine, perfectly encapsulating the excitement and confusion of young love, making her journey both heartwarming and heartbreaking as she navigates familial tensions with an uncle who raised her like his own daughter and a budding romance. Rounding out the ensemble, Coby Rogers as Rodolpho infuses the stage with lightness and charm, somehow in just existing challenges Eddie’s masculinity. While Matthew Salazar-Thompson as Louis and First Immigration Officer, and Steve Froehlich as Mike, Tony and Second Immigration Officer move the play along through the transitions of Eddie’s loving nature to obsessed heathen. Together, this talented cast creates a rich tapestry of characters that makes ‘A View From the Bridge‘ an unforgettable experience.
Laguna Playhouse has truly outdone itself this season. The stellar performances and meticulous direction would undoubtedly make Arthur Miller stand up and take notice. It’s hard to imagine how they will top this production of ‘A View From the Bridge‘, as it stands as the most memorable performances of the season thus far.
If there is only one theatrical experience you have this fall, make sure it is ‘A View From the Bridge‘.
‘A View From the Bridge‘ runs at the Laguna Playhouse from now until November 17, 2024.
To purchases tickets for ‘A View From the Bridge‘ visit: https://lagunaplayhouse.com/.
Summary
With a talented cast and a gripping story, ‘A View From the Bridge‘ is an unmissable experience. Make time in your busy schedules to see it before its run ends.
How could you even waste time mentioning what hand one makes the sign of the cross with? Are you SURE you didn’t “notice” AFTER he mentioned it in a post talk? It’s just about the oddest thing I have ever read a review mention in my life. You wasted valuable space for that, instead of using words to get specific about any number of aspects that made this production a great one. But I do agree, it is one of greatest nights of theater I’ve ever experienced, and I’m a New Yorker and 61.