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An afternoon in Central Park

Tucked at the top of a staircase in University Heights lives a space set aside for imaginative live theatre. Housed in the Diversionary Theatre's Mainstage, Edward Albee's first play ("The Zoo Story") is brought to life by a new group of players under the banner of Backyard Renaissance Theatre Company.

Established just three years ago, this intense group of players has been accepted under the umbrella of La Jolla Playhouse as its Resident Theatre for 2018-2019 season. Quite an accomplishment for a three-year-old troupe.

Like Albee the Backyard Renaissance Theatre Company is dedicated to bringing a new voice to local audiences. "The Zoo Story" brought Albee success that had evaded him prior to its first performance in Berlin, Germany in the late 1950's.

Set on a Sunday afternoon in New York's Central Park, successful book publisher Peter (Phil Johnson) is enjoying his weekly escape to read on his favorite park bench.

As the city noises subside and the park's calm settles in, Peter relaxes into his book. Until it is rudely interrupted by a lingering presence. The imposing presence of an interloper. Jerry is played by Francis Gercke. Gratingly annoying, Gercke's character portrayal hits the mark as the every man living amongst us. Unlike Peter, Jerry is living at the edge.

Here is the real trick to acting. Doing nothing. Because it is hard to do nothing on stage. One more time I am appreciative of Phil Johnson's talent. He can hold silence. Which gives Gercke something to play off. Between them we are pulled into the embarrassment as it oozes over their space resulting in the unspoken.

In just 55 minutes we are transported. Be sure to catch this thought-provoking performance by two of the area's best actors.

Directed by Rosina Reynolds, the simple story unfolds in a perfectly designed set by Justin Humphres, lit by Alex Croker Larkness and the sound is made possible by Matt Lescault-Wood. Pulled together to create the ideal situation for this account.

"The Zoo Story" is playing for 5 more performances on the Diversionary Theatre Mainstage until July 29. Located at 4545 Park Boulevard it is a small show with a big impact. Find discounted tickets at http://www.backyardrenaissance.com. Free neighborhood parking. Rated 9 out of 10

The writer can be contacted at [email protected]

 

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