Boston Marriage

Nicole Pacent and Heather Wake (Photo by Paul Crichton)

A “Boston marriage” is a 19th century term for a relationship between two women that may involve both physical and emotional intimacy.  In writing this 1999 lesbian play, David Mamet, a heterosexual man, was attempting to disprove the rumors that he only wrote plays, or could only write plays, about men.

The central couple, Anna & Claire (Heather Wake and Nicole Pacent, who switch roles nightly), argue over Claire’s newfound “love.” Perhaps it’s not really love, Anna suggests, before Claire admits that this newfound flame is 13-years-old. This get even more complicated when it becomes evident that an emerald necklace worn by Anna belongs to the child’s mother. Will Anna and Claire be able to find a way to hold on to both the girl and her wealthy, unfaithful father?

Mamet’s play is very entertaining and witty, and under Bernardo Cubria’s direction, performed smartly by three good actresses (including Dulce Valencia in the role of The Maid). Pacent delivers her lines with precision and intention, while Wake is elegantly funny though at times a bit over the top. (Both lead actresses are also co-producers.)  Meanwhile as the Scottish maid, Valencia delivers punchlines perfectly in a regional accent that’s spot on.

However, Cubria’s direction fails to establish the play’s rhythms. Despite their lucid delivery, the performers rush their lines, overriding some of the phrases and nuances of this marvelously written play.