Word: playing
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Dates: during 1990-1999
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Perhaps modesty induced Scottish playwright C. P. Taylor to choose "good" as the title of a play that undoubtedly merits the superlative form of its headlining adjective. Certainly this was the lingering impression after watching the freshman rendition of Good, running from Oct. 22-30th at the Agassiz. Acting, plot, scenery and music all come together in this highly professional production that ultimately makes sense out of a complicated structure and story line...
...this is gradually what happens as Halder finds himself first trying to rationalize euthanasia as a compassionate act toward the sick and deformed, then the bonfire of the books, Krystal Nacht, and in what proves to be the play's most shocking (if somewhat farfetched) moment, Auschwitz. As Halder's rationalizations become increasingly strained and desperate, Hitler assumes a more seductive tone in Halder's mind, and his image is accompanied by popular, catchy drinking songs...
...Despite its frequent use of music, Good is not a musical. This use of music is simply one of the play's ingenious, innovative touches. The songs and symphonic pieces break up the monotony of Halder's long soliloquies, adding comic relief or exaggerating irony when necessary. As the play's events unfold, the music gradually becomes more serious to match the severity of Hitler's increasingly powerful position. Musical director John Baxindine '00 does an admirable job as band leader, and his three fellow musicians, prominently displayed at center stage, perform even the most intricate pieces with style...
...Undoubtedly, much of the professional polish of the play stems from actual professionals' involvement. Arciniegas, who has been directing and performing in the Boston area for several years, lends a special poignancy to the complicated role of John Halder. The professional expertise is also apparent in Daniel Gidron's effective directing, although the efforts of student assistant director, stage managers, and producers, should be noted for their contributions to this extremely mature production. Especially effective is the sparse yet elegant set design of Glenn Reisch '00. Chairs, stairs, and banners form an aesthetically pleasing backdrop...
...Across the street from the Ritz Carlton and nestled between the posh shoulders of the Armani boutique and Alan Bilizeran, the 25 Newbury Street Banana Republic seems to want to play in the big leagues. They use their location as much for brand name advertisement as for selling clothes. And it seems to be working; across Boston people are buying and vying to dress like a banana...