Reviewed by Tony Annicone

 

The Renaissance City Theatre the producing entity at the Granite Theatre’s current show is “The Prisoner of Second Avenue” by Neil Simon. This dark comedy tells the story of Mel, a New York-based advertising executive, whose life takes a dramatic turn when he loses his job. As he attempts to cope with his new unemployment status, he becomes particularly depressed over the fact he must now depend on the income of his wife, Edna, who, out of necessity, has now taken on a job. When his apartment is burglarized and his psychiatrist dies with $23,000 of his money, Mel has a nervous breakdown. As the couple recovers together, the audience witnesses their resilience, and determination to survive. A Jewish family meeting with his brother, Harry and sisters, Pauline, Pearl and Jessie add lightness to the show.  Although having a nervous break down is a serious matter, Neil Simon reminds us even in the face of desperation and despair, there can be laughter. Director Jude Pescatello chooses the best cast for this show and blocks it splendidly on the beautiful set built and designed by David Jepson. He keeps the pace of the show in constant motion.

Read more “THE PRISONER OF SECOND AVENUE (Renaissance City Theatre, Westerly, RI)”