The Wisdom of Eve is an entertaining and recommended. The cast is spectacular.
Photo: RICH SCHMITT
How did they do it?
Pierson Playhouse burns in the January 7 Fire. There’s no place for Theatre Palisades actors to practice or perform. The costumes burned, the lighting and sets burned and yet . . .the Wisdom of Eve, by Mary Orr, directed by Sherman Wayne, which opened last weekend was topnotch, masterful, absorbing and enjoyable.
Currently the cast is performing in a small theater “The Blue Door” in Culver City, at 9617 Venice Boulevard. There are three rows of seats and those of us sitting in the front row, were so close to the actors we were practically “absorbed” into the show. It was almost interactive, as if you were in the room listening to private conversations.
Orr’s story was also the genesis of the film All About Eve and the hit musical Applause. The plot details how a seemingly innocent young woman, Eve Harrington, befriends a famous star Margo Crane (Maria O’Conner), and becomes her secretary. But the naivete is simply a front that hides the ambition and the lengths to which Eve will go to achieve her goal of stardom.
Eve, played by Isabella DiBernardino, is a challenging role because one had to play simple innocence and then be believable as a schemer and also be possibly dangerous. But DiBernardino is exceptional and when you’re close to her, which you are in this theater, you can feel the shifts of her personality.
Steven Frankenfield as the Broadway stage manager, Harvey Marshall, is also fooled by Eve played by Isabella DeBernardino.
Photo: JOY DAUNIS
The play is worth going to just to watch her. But one needs strong actors to counterbalance her performance and this play has them, including O’Connor, the star who is no longer an ingenue. Although Margo is temperamental and loves having her ego stroked, down deep, one knows she is a good person, unlike Eve.
Sara Kaner as Karen Roberts, initially introduces Eve to Margo and is surprised as she tries to grapple with the reality of what Eve is capable. But Roberts, too, is not faultless, and goes to great lengths for love.
A diabolical woman can be far crueler and more tactical than any man—and this play demonstrates it. The men in the cast, Philip Bartolf, Manfred Hofer, Steven Frankenfeild are well cast, and the perfect balance to women “who run the show.”
Director Sherman Wayne coaxes nuanced performances from his actors, and the result is a perfect evening. Producer Martha Hunter, who also has a cameo in the play, has a hit with this play.
Showtimes are Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. through September 21. Tickets are $25 for adults and $22 for seniors and students. Tickets, as well as a map, can be accessed click here. Box office is (310) 454-1970.
Characters Karen Roberts (Sara Kaner) and Margo Crane (Maria O’Connor) listen as Lloyd Roberts (Manfred Hofer) reads a play review.
Photo: JOY DAUNIS
Thanks for the great review of “Eve.”
Incredible performances by all the actors! Loved the show!