Ars Amatoria

Or, So Be It.

Scheduled to run Wednesday, May 11th through Sunday, May 15th at the American Theatre of Actors in NY, "Ars Amatoria" or "So Be It" is an intense yet dramatic and dark-comedic off-Broadway play about 3 men, 1 woman and several controversial topics, one focusing most of it's content on that of abortion. Directed by Laurie Rae Waugh and written by Grace Fishman, "Ars Amatoria" tells the story of a desperate and divorced young mother of 2, who turns to her adopted brother, past ex-lover and possible future-companion for money in order to get an abortion, after being moneyless from paying alimony and emotionally scarred from her previous relationship. After finding out that she is pregnant from a man she had a one-night stand with while she was in an open-marriage, she turns to the three men in her life who she feels will not only understand her position, but would be willing to partake in an action for a sensible reason. Filled with controversy, this play focuses on topics ranging from the simplistic notion of love to the complex demeanor of life's courses.

During the show, I very much enjoyed the performance of adopted brother, Jeb, played by James Rieser. Rieser was an intellectually stimulating actor that not only provided insight and discernment to the play, but also a lighthearted air that almost refreshed the serious and controversial topic of abortion. Rieser's articulation and projecting vocal quality set a mood of comfort and understanding within his character. His heartfelt reactions were apparent at the beginning, climax and end of the play and his gestures, movement and business was indeed, suitably executed and well understood. Rieser's proper relationship with the other actors on stage allowed a sensible tone to be set in the atmosphere. Both orally and visually, Rieser provided a concerning and eloquent believability to his character Jeb and in turn, made Jeb likeable and distinguished.

I would also like to discuss the performance of ex-lover, Keith, played by Christopher Spurrier. Spurrier was a delightful addition who added charisma and consistency to "Ars Amatoria." His interpretation of the now rich and successful man of inheritance was beautifully played as Spurrier's expression and verbalization clearly made it's way up the ladder as the days progressed. His comfort level and gestures provided the audience with a deeper insight to Keith's past as opposed to his new self. Having been his first time on stage in an off-Broadway play, Spurrier's ability to mold Keith into a believable and approachable character was implausible. His movement around the stage was natural and essential and his reactions to certain conversations were authentic. Spurrier was very reassuring and favored, and like Rieser, was endearingly lighthearted and sensible. The audience interacted well with this new face as sounds of laughter and gestures of sympathy and comprehension filtered across the faces of those intrigued by Spurrier's oral and visual projection. Both appealing and engaging, Christopher Spurrier expanded his talents and set forth his steadfastness adequately.

In addition to the fine work of Rieser and Spurrier, I was also impressed with the technical aspects of the show. With a simplistic yet comfortable setting, the correct mood was appointed for the content of the play. White walls stood behind decorative paintings, while a white couch placed in the center of the stage for the first half of the play, provided a very homey ambiance. The lighting, bright enough to notice the expressions of the actors and the background of the stage, illuminated in a perfect light. Costumes, containing both every day attire and that of  professionalism, allowed the actors to be seen as realistic and practical. Sound effects were directly placed in correct occasions and although were miniscule in the play, were competent. 

After viewing this show 2 out of the 5 days of it being shown (tomorrow being the last day and the 3rd time that I will see it), I would have to say that it was very captivating and well recommended to those who enjoy immense vocabulary, insightful comments that make you contemplate everyday occurrences and a cast of well-rounded actors who are engaged and passionate about their roles. I enjoyed this production and anticipate tomorrow's show to be just as delightful and enthralling as the prior performances.



*If you are interested in going to tomorrow's last show, it is at the American Theatre of Actors located at 314 W. 54th street between 8th and 9th Ave. in NY. Show starts at 3 p.m. and tickets are $15 at the door!*