THE HANGOVER REPORT – Excellent performances lift Deirdre Kinahan’s MOMENT at Studio

I7522Studio Theatre has long been one of the bedrocks of the Washington, DC theater scene, as well as the Logan Circle neighborhood. They continue to be just that with productions like their current Moment by Irish playwright Deirdre Kinahan. On paper, the play, about the return of a long-absent son and the drama that ensues, looks like your standard dysfunctional family at the kitchen sink fare. However, Ms. Kinahan’s play distinguishes itself by not playing favorites; all her characters are flawed and their feelings uncompromising throughout. In other words, they’re as hard-headed as we are. Even the play’s conclusion is disquieting in its refusal to commit to what the next day will bring.

The Studio production is excellent. It’s directed with a sure hand by Ehtan McSweeny, making his directorial debut at Studio with this staging, which is uncommonly well-acted across the board, particularly on three fronts. As Nial, the prodigal son, Peter Albrink is affecting is his bruised angst and vulnerability. As his antagonizing sister Niamh, Emily Landham is dynamite, seething uncomfortably until her character can no longer contain her long-concealed emotions. Finally, as the Teresa – the matriarch of the family – Dearbhla Molloy’s plaintive yet persevering portrayal is just about perfect and wholly heartbreaking.

RECOMMENDED

 

MOMENT
Regional, Play
Studio Theatre (Washington, DC)
2 hours (with one intermission)
Through April 24

Categories: Off-Broadway, Theater

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