Snippitts of Illusions

Hobo in the back row review of A Behanding in Spokane

Martin McDonagh's plays tend to be surreal dark affairs. Examining the basest of human emotions and the horrible ways that mankind interacts. But unlike some of his peers who also delve into the dark side of human behavior McDonough is able to show the humor in it. Able to peel back the layers of horror and give us a glimpse of the humanity in even the most horrendous character. His latest play A Behanding in Spokane is no different. Hearkening back to his earlier comedies, than the darker more surreal Pillowman, Behanding tells the tale of the insane loner Carmichael who had his hand taken away 27 years ago and the couple that tries to cheat him, and the burned out hotel receptionist that just want's something cool to happen while he's at work.

I had the opportunity to see The Hive Theater Company's production of a Behanding in Spokane this past weekend, knowing only the initial premise going into the play I was pleasantly surprised. The play opens with a seemingly bored Carmichael (Jeffery Owen) waiting alone in his motel room. After several moments a loud banging from the closet introduces us to Toby (Lonzo Liggins) who's tied up inside. After firing his gun off towards Toby, Carmichael attracts the attention of Mervyn (Jared Greathouse), the hotel employee who works reception, but would call himself a receptionist. Mervyn accuses Carmichael of shooting off his gun, which of course Carmichael denies. Shortly after Mervyn leaves the final character Marilyn (Tiffany Greathouse) enters, with a severed hand for Carmichael.

It's here where the play picks up. Carmichael has been searching for his missing hand since hillbilly's took it from him when he was 17. Time after time he's been cheated by someone when presented with a hand that isn't his. This time is no different. Mr. Owen flexes his acting chops at this point, whereas before he came across as mildly eccentric now that the ruse has been discovered Mr Owen's builds layer upon layer of quiet rage into his performance before exploding into an outrageous anger that underlines the character. The acting is solid all around though: Lonzo Liggins brings a certain likability to Toby, and you can't help but root for him, despite discovering flaw after flaw in his character. Tiffany Greathouse's Marilyn is just the right combination of shrewd and ditzy. Jared Greathouse's portrayal of Mervyn, by far the oddest character in the show is alone worth the price of admission. His ability to make the character both oddly enjoyable and twistedly detestable compliments the other performances making them stronger.

The set of the dingy motel room is both functional and utilizes the stage well, not hindering the actors in anyway. The direction by Sam Mcginnis is strong through out, he utilizes the set and for the most part uses the perceived discomfort of the characters in his blocking. While the production is solid, there are only a few minor notes: There were moments where the pacing dragged, though these were minor and were quickly picked back up, and one or two instances where the stage felt underused with the characters crowded (who weren't shackled at the time) in one spot. Both however are minor issues may very well not be an noticeable in other performances.

Not having experienced the Hive Theater Company before, I'm happy to say that I'm a fan. They are producing contemporary works and A Behanding in Spokane is just one in a small but growing portfolio of current theater. If you're a fan of theater and want to see something new and fresh I would encourage you to take in the production these folks are putting up.

The Hive Theater Company's Regional Premiere of A Behanding in Spokane by Martin Mcdonagh has one more weekend this May 10th and 11th. At the Sugar Place in Salt Lake. Get your tickets here.

posted by F.G. Shaw @ 8:24 PM