University of Virginia Library

Sexual Element

Mr. Grant has heightened the
sexual element in the play about as
much as is possible. This is
effectively achieved through suggestive
glances, concentrated movements,
and of course, shading of
the delivery of lines to that end.

On occasion Mr. Grant would be
wise to be a bit more subtle in his
approach (there is one line he has
given Incz in which she outrightly
declares her lesbianism, which is
totally unnecessary since she has
already made this perfectly clear).
It isn't smart to be too obvious,
which this production at times is,
for it implies that the audience is
being looked upon as naive.

The acting ranges from adequate
(Sheryl Simms as Estelle) to near
excellent (Adam Gregor as Cradeau)
to extraordinary (Penny oss
as Incz). Despite their varying
degrees of displayed talent, the
three work well together as a
company.

Miss Simms' performance is not
as penetrating as the other two; it is
more of a surface characterization.
Her weakest moments are when she
screams and cries, unconvincingly
in both cases. Mr. Gregor does a
commendable job throughout, but
his portrayal of Cradeau builds in
intensity with the play's flow, until
he reaches the desired emotional
peak at the point when Cradeau
must admit to himself he is a
coward.