Reviewed by Tony Annicone
The Wilbury Theatre Group’s first show of their new season is “The Caretaker”, a play in three acts by Harold Pinter. When it premiered in 1964, “The Caretaker” changed the face of modern theatre. Into his derelict household shrine Ashton brings Davies, a tramp with pretensions. Even though he may seem to the world to be a pathetic old creature. All that is left of his past now is his existence in Sidcup of some papers, papers that will prove exactly who he is and enable him to start all over again.
Ashton, too, has his dreams: he has always been good with his hands and there is much to do in the house. He has been traumatized by brutal treatment for his mental health problems. Ashton’s hopes are tied to his flash brother Mick’s; he has aspirations to live in a luxurious apartment. Human nature is a great spoiler of plans, however. Mick is sharp tongued and purposely scares and confuses Davies. Each faces a harsh reality in this show that is also an absurdist comedy. Director Steve Kidd displays his keen insight into these complex Pinter characters. He makes his three performers delve into their characters, making them deliver well nuanced performances from his talented cast. Their brilliant acting prowess wins them a standing ovation at the end of the show.
Steve gives his talented cast some clever comic bits including the performers looking at the sound of rain drops into a bucket and a struggle over a duffle bag that has to be seen to be believed. Excellent comic timing is displayed. Joe Short gives the role of Ashton, a multifaceted performance. He shows the underlying hurt and anguish of mistreatment for his mental problems with electric shock treatment. Joe’s timing when he struggles to remember a word or a thought is perfect. His relationship with the other two characters is terrific. The resentment comes through with his dealings with Davies when he finally throws him out. No matter how far Ashton has come, his anger boils beneath the surface. His Act 2 speech about his incarceration is mesmerizing and brings tears to your eyes. This is one more feather in Joe’s cap, having first reviewed him in “Grapes of Wrath” as Tom Joad in 2004.
Josh Short plays the volatile, Mick. He runs roughshod over Davies with his rapid fire monologues. He displays his love for his brother by protecting him from this mysterious and deceitful intruder into their lives. His rapid fire delivery reminds one of a young John Cleese. Josh is also the artistic director for Wilbury Theatre Group. I first reviewed Josh in “Fat Pig” back in 2006. Richard Donelly becomes Davies who changes personas to fit whomever he is speaking to at the moment. He adapts himself into each situation adeptly while displaying a wide rage of emotions while doing so. Richard commands the stage in this role. So for a fantastic theatrical experience of acting at its best and for the audience to savor and enjoy, be sure to catch “The Caretaker” at the new performance space of the The Wilbury Theatre Group. Tell them Tony sent you.
THE CARETAKER (14 September to 8 October)
The Wilbury Theatre Group, 40 Sonoma Court, Providence, RI
1(401)400-7100 or www.thewilburygroup.org
