Summer & Smoke

Summer & Smoke

Transport Group

Classic Stage Company

May 5, 2018

Photo courtesy of Classic Stage Company

The Transport Group’s production of Summer & Smoke at Classic Stage Company is truly exquisite.  Director Jack Cummings III uncovers the nuances in every moment of Tennessee Williams’ writing.  With a practically bare stage the audience becomes enveloped by the poeticism in the words, the layers of the relationships, and the depth of the yearning.  Every minor character and occurrence is integral to the atmosphere that ignites the journey of the two main characters.  The timing and pace is sheer perfection.

Photo courtesy of Classic Stage Company

Alma (played by Marin Ireland) has been in love with her neighbor John (played by Nathan Darrow) since childhood.  When he returns from medical school, she plays hard to get as John flirts for her affection.  Alma suffers from panic spells caused by family pressure and the expectation to be a proper Southern “lady” and a dutiful minister’s daughter.  John perceives this as rejection and begins keeping company with Rosa Gonzales (played by Ellen Hurst).  His drinking and gambling brings him on a quick downward spiral.  The tables turn when Alma offers herself to John after a tragic family event, but it is too late for Alma to find her happiness.

Nathan Darrow & Marin Ireland
Photo courtesy of Classic Stage Company

This play depends on the chemistry between Alma and John, and Marin Ireland and Nathan Darrow set the stage on fire.  Their attraction is palpable from the first moment of the play.  The sparks fly in a continual push/pull between them that starts off playfully, then becomes heartfelt and troubled. Ms. Ireland fully embodies the character of Alma Winemiller, proving that she is by far Tennessee Williams' most beguiling, bewitching, and brazen of characters.  Mr. Darrow takes the character of John Buchanan through a transformation during the latter portion of the play that is tangible and truthful.

Set design by Dane Laffrey includes an opaque ceiling that filters the light and allows it to wash the space with the warmth of a Southern summer evening.  Lighting Designer R. Lee Kennedy uses this to the fullest, creating moods that enhance the emotional impact of each scene.

Summer & Smoke has been extended through May 25.  If you are a Tennessee Williams fan you MUST see this production.  If you are not too familiar with his works, this production is definitely one to lose yourself in.  Either way, get your ticket today!

Domenick Danza