THE HANGOVER REPORT – The Mint resuscitates Hazel Ellis’s juicy period drama WOMEN WITHOUT MEN

sub-26womenmen-web-master675Last night, I caught Mint Theater Company’s resuscitation of Hazel Ellis’s 1938 boarding school drama (but really, a comedy of manners), Women Without Men. No, it’s not told from the perspective of the young elementary school students, but through the eyes of the school’s set of catty, frustrated teachers and administrators. This curious play isn’t without its flaws – it revels in dated gender politics (I encourage you to read the informative program notes before watching the play to get a better grasp of the play’s historical context) and is populated by archetypal stock characters. That being said, Ms. Ellis’s play is undeniably juicy stuff, especially as performed here. In many ways, it calls to mind Clare Boothe Luce’s popular play The Women (both pieces feature all-female casts, biting dialogue, and uncompromising characters). By uncovering Women Without Men, which amazingly has never been performed in the United States (let alone published), the Mint continues prove why it is an essential beacon in the landscape of the Off-Broadway theater scene.

This is the Mint’s first production away from its previous Hell’s Kitchen digs. And although I miss the “by the fireside” atmosphere of their old space, director Jenn Thompson has done commendable job of managing the larger subterranean venue (in the bowels of City Center, where Manhattan Theatre Club performs) to suit the Mint’s brand of intimate storytelling. As with all of the Mint’s productions, Women Without Men is uncommonly well-produced for a company of its size and resources. It’s been lovingly directed by Ms. Thompson and carefully designed (sets and costumes are by Mint regulars, Vicki R. Davis and Martha Hally, respectively). It’s also observantly acted by an excellent all-female cast. It’s a tribute to their skill as individual actresses – particularly Kellie Overbey’s thoughtful portrayal of Ms. Connor – that they’re able to establish characterizations that are at once brand new (at least to American audiences) and comfortably familiar. Such is the confidence and skill they bring to this long-forgotten, beautifully restored play.

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WOMEN WITHOUT MEN
Off-Broadway, Play
Mint Theater Company at New York City Center
2 hours, 15 minutes (with one intermission)
Through March 26

Categories: Off-Broadway, Theater

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