By Tracy Hawkins
Run, do not walk, to the Arden Theatre to see the world premiere of Lorene Cary’s “Ladysitting.” Based on Ms. Cary’s 2019 memoir of the last years of her grandmother’s life, it is an evening of bittersweet emotions interlaced with some very funny moments.
Director Zuhairah McGill demonstrates the skill that has garnered her two Barrymore Awards. She has staged the play with both a tender touch and an eye to the practicality of moving the actors around in a manner that suggests a large rectory (on a relatively small stage).
Melanye Finister and Trezana Beverley in Arden Theatre Company’s “Ladysitting”. Photo by Wide Eyes Studios.
As the funny and cantankerous Nana, Tony Award winner Trezana Beverley is center stage (literally and figuratively). At nearly 100 years old at the start of the play, she knows her time is approaching, but how she handles it, and how it impacts the family, is what gives the show its heart.
Melanye Finister gives a beautiful and moving performance as the granddaughter, wife and mother trying to be all things to all people. Her Lorene echoes the heartbreaking experiences faced by every caregiver, particularly those of a beloved elder. David Ingram does a very nice job as her patient husband, and Monet Debose portrays their teen daughter with a blend of the dutiful and the resentful.
Brian Anthony Wilson portrays several roles, and, despite his unmistakable voice and physique, manages to convey a distinctiveness to each character. He is at turns kind, harsh, funny, matter of fact, patient, exasperated, and triumphant.
The lighting design by Thom Weaver is particularly fine, keeping the audience focused on the part of Brian Sidney Bembridge’s impressive set as the action moves from room to room. Jairous L. Parker’s sound design complements the production well, particularly as music plays a part in the show as well.
I am reminded by this production, in particular, of how fortunate we are in the Philadelphia area to have such talented artists, such fine venues, and the commitment of theater managers to stage new and interesting work. Don’t let it go to waste – support the arts with your patronage.
If you go: The show runs 90 minutes without an intermission and is presented on the upstairs Arcadia Stage.
Ladysitting just got a second extension of performances due to popularity. The show opened on Jan. 24 and now runs through March 10. Tickets are available at www.ardentheatre.org or by phone at (215) 922-1122.