Sometimes Less is More When It Comes to Theater

by | Jul 27, 2023 | What I'm Seeing and Hearing | 2 comments

[production photo courtesy of Shakespeare and Company]

I’m posting my review of Shakespeare and Company’s Fences, which I saw last night here in the Berkshires. It’s interesting to me that I thought this production was better than the Oscar-nominated and -winning (Viola Davis for Best Supporting Actress) 2016 film starring Denzel Washington and Viola Davis. And to be honest, I often think that productions with regional actors and less elaborate staging are superior to more expensive productions. Why is that? Is it because the more intimate venues allow more of a sense of engagement with the performers? In the case of the live stage performance vs. a film, is it because audience reaction reinforces the emotional impact? Or is it just me being contrary? Whatever the reason, this is often the case, and this was no exception. I hope this production will earn the filled seats it deserves. https://stageandcinema.com/2023/07/25/fences-shakespeare-and-co-review/