reviewed by Ken Klingenmeier
Tracy Letts’ August: Osage County, the 2008 recipient of the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, opened at the Steppenwolf Theatre in Chicago in August 2007 before having its Broadway premiere in December of that same year. Director Brent Wooldridge brings the tragicomedy to vivid life in Westfield Playhouse with a sharp cast and an expert eye for the many defining moments in the script.
The story concerns the torridly dysfunctional Weston family. Having just lost their husband/father/in-law Beverly Weston, whose singular appearance begins the show, a widowed Violet Weston is visited by her sister and daughters with their assorted partners and offspring. Secrets are the common denominator in the group, as each individual struggles to make it through the gathering’s caustic atmosphere which is largely due to the volatile Violet – an incorrigable, addled, pill-popping addict suffering from mouth cancer.
The hardworking cast is led by Sally Carter as Violet, a difficult role which she carries to great heights. Ms. Carter is “in the moment” to a profound degree, giving herself over fully to the portrayal in both manner and appearance. It truly is a captivating acting job and Ms. Carter is to be congratulated for it.
Joining her at the forefront of the story is Molly Bellner as Violet’s oldest daughter, Barbara. Ms. Bellner’s turn is wrought with a power of character that is deeply impressive. Barbara’s frustrations with her own life’s circle find higher levels as she takes on new crises in her return to her childhood home and Ms. Bellner evokes a commanding performance.
A full list of remarkable characterizations is offered by an extraordinary team of skilled performers. Their well-honed ensemble work is a key factor in the compelling storytelling here. Everyone plays off of their acting partners with keen and correct levels. This is especially evident in the famous dinner table scene where mother Violet launches into her rampage of “the truth”. The scene evolves into a chaotic frenzy which is somewhat frightening in its realities.
A most striking trait about this wonderful production is the realistic rendering of the characters and their actions (and reactions) as presented by these fine actors. The power and realism of Lett’s story is realized fully in the power and reality of the portrayals. Director Wooldridge has led his charges to build a remarkably honest world filled with remarkably dishonest people. The resulting effect is striking and at times very disturbing.
All this action is played out on an exceptional multi-tiered set design by Ron Roessler, with precise set decoration by Ian Marshall-Fisher and Pam Jensen. Addie Taylor’s costume designs are extensive and appropriate. The lighting and sound designs by Eric Matter and Duane Mercier, respectively, are essential cogs in the production. Brent Wooldridge, with support from producer Ka’Lena Cuevas, has brought together a wealth of skilled and proficient crew and cast members – the result being one of the most exceptional productions of the 2022-23 theatre season.
Bottomline: It would be impossible for me to point out all the noteworthy performances I saw in this show because the entire cast of 13 is notable and worthy of praise. It’s rare to see such an even amount of acting talents given over in a large-scale community theatre production, but MSP’s offering has that quality to a high degree. Lett’s award-winning creation has found an equal. I enjoyed it thoroughly. Very highly recommended!
August: Osage County runs at the Basile Westfield Playhouse, presented by Main Street Productions, through June 18th. Curtain times are Thursday/Friday/Saturday at 7:30 pm, and Sunday at 2:30 pm. Tickets may be purchased at http://www.westfieldplayhouse.org.
It must be noted that a legitimate warning about content is issued for these performances. Certain language and actions may be disturbing to audience members at times. Suggested age for attendees is 18 or older.
- – photos by Indy Ghost Light Photography
A Seat on the Aisle 
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