The Glass Menagerie at Prime Stage Theatre | Blogh

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Saturday, March 12, 2011

The Glass Menagerie at Prime Stage Theatre

Posted By on Sat, Mar 12, 2011 at 2:33 PM

Prime Stage is known mostly for its adaptations of classic literature for young-adult audiences, and its mission is expressly educational. But don't let that keep you from this fine production of the Tennessee Williams masterpiece.

The performance I attended last night was mostly post-collegiate folk, and few went away disappointed.

Admittedly, the turnout was likely boosted by the participation of two local stage luminaries: Veteran Richard Keitel directed, and the role of Amanda was played by Robin Walsh, whom many consider Pittsburgh's top actress. (This is the first chance to see Walsh on stage in about two years, by my count; lately she's been doing more directing herself.)

Walsh's musical line readings of the dialogue for Williams' faded and desperate Southern belle alone might be worth the price of admission. But it's a strong show overall, and not the first time Prime Stage has hit the mark with a classic. I recall a very good The Crucible there a few years back.

There are two more performances of Glass Menagerie, tonight at 8 p.m. and the 2:30 p.m. Sunday matinee. www.primestage.com

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