The Skin of Our Teeth

The Skin of Our Teeth

Voice Theatre

at Byrdcliffe Theater

July 8, 2017

 

Photo courtesy of Voice Theatre

Thornton Wilder’s The Skin of Our Teeth is a work that every American needs to see at this time of change and uncertainty.  Now running at Byrdciffe Theatre in Woodstock, NY, the Voice Theatre’s production of this Pulitzer Prize winning play is extremely well done.  Director Shauna Kanter works magic with a low budget and tremendously talented cast to deliver Thornton Wilder’s poignant and vital message with eloquence and spirit.

This three act play follows the Antrobus family through thousands of years of the turmoil.  They survive the ice age, the great flood, and still manage to rebuild after the Great War.  Thornton Wilder won the Pulitzer Prize in 1942 for this timely play that gave America a hopeful outlook in face of the events of World War II.  It is funny, thought provoking, and timeless in its theme of the inevitability of the survival of the human race.  Mr. Wilder utilizes classical, philosophical, and biblical references to highlight the valuable concepts mankind has at its fingertips, and must never lose sight of in the face of challenge.  He breaks numerous theatrical conventions of his day that remain fresh and innovative seventy-five years later.

Philip Mansfield has a strong presence as George Antrobus.  His character’s moments of doubt and weakness, which are vital to the action, are true and honest.  He builds back his courage with zeal and devotion.  Megan Bones hits every one of Mrs. Antrobus’ meaningful monologues with skill and care.  She shifts the pace and tone of her scenes in order to focus the audience’s attention on Mr. Wilder’s intention, then delivers his message with potent significance.  Christa Trinler’s Sabina is bold and funny.  In Act III she adjusts the character’s pitch and demeanor to bring the events of the play to its stunning conclusion.  Olivia Howell and Evan Sibley are superbly cast as Gladys and Henry.  Their characters mature and develop in each act, pushing the limits of their family relationships with honest vim.

Photo courtesy of Voice Theatre

Voice Theatre’s production of The Skin of Our Teeth is playing at Byrdcliffe Theater through July 23.  If you are upstate NY in the month of July, be sure to take in this show.  If you are looking to get away, this could be a great weekend trip.  They are selling out, so get your tickets on their website ahead of time (voicetheatre.org), and prepare to be revitalized by Thornton Wilder’s insight and optimism.

Domenick Danza