Review: “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?” Sensational!

The Hampton Theatre Company’s production of Edward Albee’s Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? opened Memorial Day weekend to a standing ovation at the Quogue Community Hall. In this powerful finale to their 40th season, Director George A. Loizides masterfully creates an intense, pulsating drama brought vividly to life by world-class performances from a cast led by Andrew Botsford and Rosemary Cline.

This may be one of Director Loizides’s finest efforts, as he breathes life into Albee’s extraordinarily complex play with both bombastic flair and tender, touching moments.

To say that Andrew Botsford is excellent in the demanding role of GEORGE, the seasoned history professor, would be an understatement. With his soothing voice and unique stage presence, Mr. Botsford navigates the stage like both a tiger poised to strike and a lamb ready for sacrifice. He channels the high-pitched emotions of the play and Albee’s feverish dialogue into the hearts, minds, and souls of the audience. It was truly a standing ovation-worthy performance. This reviewer would not be overstating things to say his portrayal evoked shades of Laurence Olivier, Rex Harrison, and the everyman charm of Alan Alda. Botsford’s performance is that good.

In the role of NICK, Cameron Eastland is outstanding. Director Loizides takes full advantage of Eastland’s many stage talents. As the tall, handsome new biology professor, Eastland excels in his interactions with fellow actors and skillfully navigates the web of psychological complexity that Albee has woven. His performance was met with well-earned audience appreciation.

Amanda Griemsmann, in the role of HONEY, Nick’s wife, touches the audience with vulnerability and gentleness. Her expressive eyes—conveying delight, shock, and naiveté—highlight her impressive acting skills. Griemsmann charmed the audience and quickly had them on her side.

Then there is Rosemary Cline as MARTHA, the explosive and clever daughter of the college president and George’s long-time wife. Ms. Cline is the anchor of this production. Her onstage chemistry with Botsford is palpable. Through her portrayal of Martha, Cline unleashes every human emotion in a feverish display. Her performance is a roller-coaster ride that keeps you on the edge of your seat—wincing, laughing, thinking, and at times, stunned. Cline’s performance alone is worth the price of two tickets. She brings the power, drive, and complexity the role demands, carrying the play through all three acts with seemingly effortless energy. She makes this marathon of a role feel like a sprint to a cozy chair, a nightcap, and a bit of mischief.

This three-act production of Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? is the result of extraordinary behind-the-scenes collaboration. It truly takes a village to produce a successful show and run a vibrant theater company. The show runs until June 8. 

The production staff is led by Director George A. Loizides and Producer Mary Powers. The beautifully crafted set is the work of Meg Sexton, who also contributed to set construction along with Joe Kenny. The Hampton Theatre Company boasts a world-class sound system overseen by Sound Engineer Jonathan Presto and Technical Director Joe Kenny, with sound design by Meg Sexton and technical support from Presto and Alex White. Lighting was managed by Kelly Weresnick and Meg Sexton, with lighting design by Sebastian Paczynski. Costume design was handled by Teresa L. Lebrun. The Production Stage Managers were Melisa DiDio and Laurie Atlas.

Fight and intimacy scenes were expertly choreographed by Cameron Eastland, who also served as Fight/Intimacy Captain. Mary Powers handled props. The vital Box Office duties were carried out by Cat Bracksmayer and Debora Jacques. Production graphics were done by Joe Pallister. Finally, a special shout-out goes to Julia Morgan Abrams, the House Manager, who has warmly greeted audiences for years.

For more information, visit Hamptontheatre.org.