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The Life And Sort Of Death Of Eric Argyle

Reviewed by Deborah Klugman
Son of Semele Ensemble
Through September 28

RECOMMENDED:

“Alas for those that never sing,

 But die with all their music in them.”

—Usually attributed, possibly inaccurately, to Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr. (1809-1894) in “The Voiceless”

Irish playwright Ross Dungan might have had this quote in mind -– for sure he had the sentiment –- when he wrote this sad and whimsical play about the life and death of an ordinary man.

The eponymous character, Eric Argyle (Craig Fleming), is 58-years-old when he is struck by a car as he crosses the street.  He comes-to in strange pale surroundings and finds himself officiously interrogated by a committee, about seemingly random events.

These events are recalled and recounted by a narrator -– a role shared by all seven members of the ensemble –- that is, everyone except Fleming.  When not narrating, the performers assume various roles, as scenes from Eric’s youth and young manhood are played out.

Rick Steadman adeptly portrays the ingenuous and confused young Eric. Don Boughton is superbly Dickens-esque as his mean, unlikable uncle. Dan Via is alternately irrepressibly funny as young Eric’s pal Craig, and equally compelling as sad Mr. Downey, his employer and friend for whom Eric has become a surrogate son. Inga Wilson depicts the lover he badly wants but never declares his feelings for.

Eventually there’s a twist to the story that, along with the play’s heavy exposition, did not work for this reviewer. Nonetheless the integrity and quality of the performances and of director Matthew McCray’s staging are unimpeachable. Jeremy Pivnick’s atmospheric other-worldly lighting is especially noteworthy.

Ultimately, the script’s limitations are eclipsed by Fleming’s performance, which  captures the poignant regret –  and mini triumph – of a brief, uncelebrated  life.

Son of Semele Ensemble, 2201 Beverly Blvd., L.A.; Fri.-Sat. 8 p.m.; Sun., 3 p.m.; through Sept. 28. sonofsemele.org