Hamptons Summer Theater Review: “Frost/Nixon” At Bay Street Theater

Daniel Gerroll and Harris Yulin brought the audience to their feet cheering at the opening night performance of Frost/Nixon. The show is a triumphant summer hit for Bay Street Theater and the reason is simple. Frost/Nixon is a compelling drama, written brilliantly by Peter Morgan and directed by Sarna Lapine. I applaud Bay Street Theater’s Artistic Director Scott Schwartz and Executive Director Tracy Mitchell for their brilliant choice to bring this extremely historic and yet timely show to the East End.

Frost/Nixon is an one act play that compacts the behind the scenes drama of what was the most watched TV interview in television history into a one hour and forty minute show fortified with the energy of overpowering performances of both lead stars Daniel Gerroll portraying David Frost and Harris Yulin as Richard Nixon.

I witnessed that event some 50 years ago and this production of Frost/Nixon had me sitting up absorbing every word. Mr. Yulin brings the complicated Richard Nixon back to life with a superb performance mixing softness to the gruff personality Richard Nixon was. Mr. Yulin is no stranger to the East End and has both a litany of screen and TV credits to add to what I believe is his truest talent and gift, that being his live acting.

Daniel Gerroll delivers a most intriguing performance of David Frost. Mr. Gerroll seems to gain gravitas and stage presence throughout the show and has an emotional explosion of energy in the most powerful moment of the show. Bravo, Mr. Gerroll.

Stephen Lee Anderson is a wonderful witty, cheeky, Swift Lazar and a convincing Mike Wallace in a duel role performance. Christian Conn adds sophistication to his role of Jim Reston that touched the audience.

Brian Keene was an audience favorite with his colorful portrayal of Bob Zeinick. However, it was Jack Brennan who captures the intensity, and dedication that the Nixon people had during the end and post mortem of Nixon’s complicated controversial demise as President.

Danielle Slavick (Caroline Cushing) showed her character’s charm with skill and Cici Koueth’s performance had a raw power that insures she has quite a future ahead of her. Price Waldman and Michael Corvino also earned accolades and kudos for their performances.

Frost/Nixon is great theater at a very affordable price.

The show runs until July 22.

Bay Street Theater is located at 1 Bay Street in Sag Harbor. For more information, visit www.baystreet.org.