Wait Until Dark
Reviewed by Lovell Estell III
Loft Ensemble
Through July 28
Frederick Knott’s edgy thriller was first performed on Broadway back in 1966 and ran for 373 performances. It’s had many stage revivals, not to mention the well-touted film version that starred the talented Audrey Hepburn, along with Alan Arkin and Richard Crenna. In short, this “slow-burn” thriller has been around the block a few times — but it can still translate to gripping entertainment. This production, however, which is the Loft Ensemble’s first in their new space, isn’t quite there yet.
It takes place in 1966 in the New York City basement apartment of housewife Suzy Hendrix (Marissa Galloway), who is blind, and her photographer husband Sam (Wes McGee). They are both unaware that they have come into possession of a doll that has, inside it, something of great value. So Roat (Jared Wilson), a cold-blooded murderer, and his confrères Sgt. Carlino (Max Marsh) and the suave, nattily attired Mike Talman (Jason Ryan Lovett) plan on obtaining the doll at all cost, and hatch an elaborate plan to locate it.
Most of what happens in Act 1 unfolds as a series of lies, ruses, petty deceits and home visits initiated by the bad guys to locate the doll. As it turns out, it’s actually in the possession of Gloria (Britt Crisp), a high-strung teenager and neighbor, who Mr. Hendrix pays to help his wife while he is away. It all comes to a head in Act 2 in a final, explosive face-off between Suzy, Talman and Roat.
This is an extremely talky play with a host of transparent plot maneuverings, and success depends a lot on the slow, palpable ratcheting up of tension and menace. But director Kenneth Rogers hasn’t managed these well, and the pacing is ponderous. The performances, on balance, are less than robust. Galloway’s performance is adequate, but not wholly convincing (except in the finale, where she really shines). Credit set designer Madylin Durrie for a splendid basement apartment, complete with venetian blinds that capture a view of the street, and Rogers and Tor Brown for the production’s fine sound.
Loft Ensemble, 11031 Camarillo St., North Hollywood; Sat., 8 p.m.; Sun., 7 p.m.; through Jul. 28. (818) 452-3153 or www.loftensemble.org. Running time: two hours with an intermission.
