THE HANGOVER REPORT – Billy Crudup’s expert performance lifts the clichéd HARRY CLARKE

Billy Crudup stars in David Cale's "Harry Clarke" at the Vineyard Theatre.

Billy Crudup stars in David Cale’s “Harry Clarke” at the Vineyard Theatre.

Last night, I caught David Cale’s new one-man play Harry Clarke at the Vineyard Theatre. The play, a sexy, psychological thriller, tells the story of an introverted man and the high stakes double life he leads. Unfortunately, although the play is competently written, I couldn’t shake the feeling that I had seen this all before (it adheres closely to the formula that made The Talented Mr. Ripley a success).

However, and it’s a big “however”, the production luckily stars a very capable Billy Crudup at the very top of his game. The handsome Mr. Crudup’s seductive, multi-faceted performance lifts Mr. Cale’s play from clichéd territory. He shifts from character to character with the ease and grace of a seasoned pro. On the strength of this performance alone, I would recommend taking a trip to the Vineyard.

RECOMMENDED

 

HARRY CLARKE
Off-Broadway, Play
Vineyard Theatre
1 hour, 20 minutes (without an intermission)
Through December 23

Categories: Off-Broadway, Theater

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