The presentation of “The Pillowman,” a play by Martin McDonagh, opened at LTV Studios in East Hampton on Thursday, April 25th, receiving a well-earned enthusiastic standing ovation. The show is directed by Stephen Hamilton and produced by Josh Gladstone along with Kassar Productions in association with LTV Studios. Everyone should make an effort to see a performance. The show runs until May 5th. For tickets and all other information, visit ltveh.org.
Without a doubt, this is serious theater. It delves into behavior and subject matter that provoke thoughts about dark topics and subjects. Playwright Martin McDonagh reportedly said about this play, “…It’s about making violence as horrible as possible and to be avoided at all costs.” Director Stephen Hamilton added, “It’s the same timeless challenge we face as humans: how to bring order from chaos to find love in a loveless world, and in the darkest of times, to look for a small ray of light.” Thus, this production is successful because it is very intense and a riveting example of the raw power of live theater. The cast of four delivers incredible individual performances that shock the audience through some brutal moments in this show yet also spark some pure crowd laughter too.
Edward Kassar is a total ticket as he delivers another lights-out performance in “The Pillowman.” To watch Mr. Kassar and his booming voice energize a stage, audience, and show is like a first-time religious experience. His portrayal of Tupolski is award-winning in itself. He has a stage presence and a unique gravitas that grabs the audience’s attention and then toys with them. John Kroft does some serious heavy lifting with his amazing talent. Playing the role of “Katurian,” he pilots huge scenes of intense descriptive dialogue with choirboy charm that towers on stage. Mr. Kroft is the real thing; he has all the qualities of a budding star with a very bright future. His chemistry with Kassar is pure and authentic. The role of Ariel is played by Joe Pallister, who always brings a huge skill set along with pure lion-like energy. Pallister can take over a scene and draw the attention of everyone, including the cast and crew. He has that kind of radiating power. He is an East End icon on the live stage to go with his many other performing credits on TV and in movies. Once again, Sawyer Spielberg’s ability to subtly steal scenes with just a line, expression, or gesture is on full display with his portrayal of “Michael.” Spielberg’s talent is natural and shy. He tackles this difficult part and marches with it.
“The Pillowman” opened this Thursday, April 25th, and runs through Sunday, May 5th, with shows starting at 7:30 pm. It is a perfect show to showcase the LTV Studios facility for producing real Hamptons “off-Broadway” types of theater experiences. David M. Brandenburg-Sound Design, along with Carlos Garcia-Stage Manager, with Brenna Leaver-Set Design, are to be applauded. As well as Hudson Woelk-Production Manager, Yuka Silvera-Costume/Prop Design, and Nicole Seitz-Wardrobe Supervisor.
Director Stephen Hamilton landed this show magnificently. His signature vision of “all things theater” is once again shining on a live production stage. His ability to present and propel memorable performances by his actors is of East End legend.
A special shoutout to Michael D. Clark, LTV’s Executive Director, for once again supporting live theater at LTV Studios, and to Creative Director Josh Gladstone for making this happen.
