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The Ghost of Ma Barker

Reviewed by Lovell Estell III

The Complex

Through August 2

Two stories 80 years apart are melded together in writer-director T.S. Devai’s two-act drama. The play opens in 1935 Ocklawaha, Florida at the hideout of Ma Barker and her gang, who are on the run from the law and awaiting the arrival of Al Karpis (Richard-John Seikaly) and his sizable proceeds from a kidnapping.

Dock (Grant Garrison), Curley (Owen Virgin), and Freddie (Ricky Ryba) divert themselves with booze, cards, banter, and the occasional violent outburst while also waiting for Ma (Diana Kyle). It’s here in the play’s long first scene that the action stops and the second narrative begins with the arrival of a radio host (Devix Szell) of a show called Mythslayers, and a psychic (Linda McShan), who, at the behest of the house’s owner, have come to investigate reports of ghosts and to “cleanse” the house.

Most of the script is centered on the Barker Gang’s criminal history and family troubles prior to the historic shootout with the FBI on January 16, which left Ma and Freddie dead. Some of the material is dull and painfully melodramatic, some of it informative and entertaining, despite the author’s tendency to abuse his creative license.

The dual narratives are initially intriguing, but the supernatural element inexorably gives rise to many overwrought, carny-style goings-on (floating tables, noises etc.), and Act 2 is overwritten. Strangely, the most revealing glimpse into Ma Barker’s personality and life comes near play’s end when she confronts the ghost of the husband she murdered. If only there were more such engaging segments.

Kyle is a commanding presence and performs well, although a shade more nuance is needed. Devai’s other cast members turn in fine performances.

Ruby Theater at the Complex, 6476 Santa Monica Blvd., Hollywood., Fri.-Sat., 8 pm., Sun. 2&7 p.m., thru. August 2. (800) 838-3006, www.mabarker.brownpapertickets.com