Harry Townsend’s Last Stand

Harry Townsend’s Last Stand

New York City Center Stage II

December 21, 2019

Photo courtesy of Harry Townsend's Last Stand

Len Cariou and Craig Bierko shine in George Eastman’s Harry Townsend’s Last Stand.  Directed by Karen Carpenter, this production is full of warmth and heart.  The confrontational moments are bold and truthful, and resolve with a genuine sense of care and mutuality.

Harry (played by Len Cariou) receives an impromptu visit in Vermont from his son, Alan (played by Craig Bierko), who lives on the west coast.  The weekend starts off with their usual sparring.  It doesn’t take Alan long to notice the changes in his father’s ability to live alone and remember things.  The truth comes out that the visit was planned by Alan and his twin sister, who cares for Harry, a number of months ago.  It’s time for Harry to move into an assisted living community.  In order to face the situation, Harry and Alan need to unearth issues and disappointments that have been buried for decades.

Len Cariou & Craig Bierko
Photo courtesy of Harry Townsend's Last Stand

Len Cariou and Craig Bierko are excellent together.  The actions of their characters are motivated by love and compassion.  Both men achieve this by creating a father/son relationship that is honest and genuine.  While Mr. Cariou is charming and boisterous, Mr. Bierko is witty and reserved.  Their timing is perfect.  They create truthful and complex characters cautiously facing unwelcome changes in their lives. 

Harry Townsend’s Last Stand is playing at New York City Center Stage II through February 9.  George Eastman’s writing is heartwarming.  The direction and performances are well worth seeing. 

Domenick Danza