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Regional Reviews: St. Louis Elephants' Graveyard Also see Richard's review of Anastasia
The two-hour story (with intermission) even plays a bit like a mystery, centering on two older women rehearsing for their own judgment day. Margaret (Gwynneth Rausch) and Smitty (Jan Meyer) recount the evidence of their lives back to one another as they head toward a sort of murder, solving it all in reverse. But we never quite know the true nature of either one until everything's set before us, usually in a light, comical way. They've known each other since college but have become separated by families and travel and distance. The play becomes most deeply distinctive as premeditated death swirls near the very end, as dangerous as any confrontation in books or movies. It actually feels worse in some ways, owing to the endearing power of both actresses. Ms. Meyer is fresher and more authentic than ever, walking a new psychological tightrope. And Ms. Rausch is very moving as her comparatively stodgy old friend. One of them is battling a dread disease and the other can't see the true depth of their relationship until it's too late. It's part mutual therapy session, part acerbic roast. The very complete kitchen set on stage is by the director. And the pacing is excellent, with only one moment where I thought it only briefly resembled The Golden Girls. It's probably best enjoyed by people my age or older, watching as our lives and the lives of our friends subtly close in on themselves, despite our best efforts. Identities are methodically piled up like rummage sales in that moment when you realize that at least half of who you are is destined for the curb. Still, they skeptically examine each other's remains, gleeful at the jumble. First Run Theatre's Elephants' Graveyard runs through November 24, 2024, at the Kranzberg Arts Center, 501 N. Grand, St. Louis MO. For tickets and information, please visit www.firstruntheatre.org. Cast: Production Staff: |
