The Indiana Repertory Theatre (IRT) last production for the 2014-2015 season, On Golden Pond, brings laughs and tears to the OneAmerica Mainstage through May 10.
Many people may be familiar with the film based on the play, starring Henry Fonda, his daughter Jane, and Katherine Hepburn. On Golden Pond tells the story of Norman (Robert Elliott) and Ethel Thayer (Darrie Lawrence) who have spent nearly 40 summers in their Maine cottage, located on the banks of Golden Pond. But just as Norman — who is experiencing frequent bouts of forgetfulness — starts to lose his zest for life, he receives an unexpected but welcomed visitor who turns his world upside-down.
This visitor, an inquisitive and misled thirteen year-old boy named Billy Ray, Jr. (Griffin Grider) challenges Norman and not only rejuvenates his love of life, but also helps restore a faded relationship between Norman and his daughter, Chelsea (Constance Macy).
Elliot’s Norman is feisty and clever, and Lawrence’s Ethel is his equal in every way. Watching these two flinty New England types verbally square off is a delight, but when Grider’s Billy Ray Jr. enters the mix, the multi-generational chemistry truly begins. One of the highlights of the production is Charlie Clark as Charlie Martin, the mailman who befriends the Thayers and always had a crush on Chelsea. His infectious laughter lights up the stage. Macy, as daughter Chelsea, turns in another fine performance on the IRT stage, struggling between love for her father and feeling inadequate in his eyes.
Director Janet Allen coaxed subtle performances from her actors in this production. The scenic design by Robert Koharchik and great lighting from Betsy Cooperider-Bernstein create just the right ambiance for this emotionally deep play.
People of all ages will enjoy this production of On Golden Pond. Adult tickets are $59-$25; call 635-5252 or visit www.irtlive.com for a full schedule.
