Becky Shaw by Gina Gionfriddo
“Love is a happy byproduct of use.”
Becky’s not quite normal, but none of the characters in Becky Shaw are exactly what anyone would consider typical. The Wilma Theater’s production of Becky Shaw, written by Gina Gionfriddo and directed by Anne Kauffman, is hilarious from start to finish.
“Five bucks says he thinks 401K is a band.”
![DanielleSkraastad_JeremyBobb3[small]](http://phillytheatretalk.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/DanielleSkraastad_JeremyBobb3small-300x199.jpg "DanielleSkraastad_JeremyBobb3[small]")
Danielle Skraastad As Suzanna Slater And Jeremy Bobb As Max Garrett In Becky Shaw At The Wilma Theater
This is the type of show that doesn’t allow the audience to feel one way or another – you’re completely torn about what you want to happen. It’s almost sadistic that way, not ever giving the audience what they inevitably expect.
“Sometimes lying is the most humane thing you can do.”
It began with a simple white room. Then, the set turned to reveal a NYC hotel room. Then, a Rhode Island apartment. Then, a park. Then, a Boston apartment. Then, a Virginia estate. An absolutely brilliant idea, the rotating set created such an original and ingenious use of space and time. At first, it was the surprise use of space that had the audience in awe, but then, after time, it became undeniably natural and yet still incredibly impressive.
It’s rare to see a cast that is so talented throughout. There was no weak link – every actor on stage knew exactly how to perfectly portray his or her character, and in all honesty, it was a phenomenal performance.
“Pocket of mystery sounds an awful lot like code for gay.”
Becky Shaw is both funny and unforgiving. Sometimes, there aren’t happy endings. And sometimes, those not-happy-endings are as happy as they’ll ever get.
The Wilma Theater presents Becky Shaw, written by Gina Gionfriddo and directed by Anne Kauffman, December 30th, 2009 extended through February 7th, 2010 at the Wilma Theater, 265 South Broad Street. www.wilmatheater.org, 215-546-7824.
