Honey, whom Early plays with an annoyingly sweet accent, and her husband, the sexy young Nick, seem to be a sweet, naïve couple, yet as the drinks begin to flow, so does the civility. The small pool of academia in a small town is filled with sharks and piranhas. Irwin's George seems a man outclassed both physically and emotionally at first, even as we learn that Nick's plan for academic advancement includes "plowing" a few faculty wives, with Martha being a willing, obvious first choice.
Under the direction of Anthony Page, using the revised 2004 version, there is wit and moments of tenderness in this harrowing journey into the ugliness of marriage and drunken revelations. None of the foursome dominates in this well-tuned ensemble. This pessimistic study of two marriages is hardly the kind of thing you'd think of in this romantic month, but Irwin and Turner are well worth the ticket price and the three-plus hours (with two 10-minute intermissions).
Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf? will run at the Ahmanson until 18 March.
Mike Nichols directed the 1966 movie production, starring Richard Burton and his then-wife, Elizabeth Taylor, along with Sandy Dennis and George Segal. All five received Oscar nominations with Taylor and Dennis taking home the statuette. Maybe it's time for a remake.
Article comments
1 - El Bicho
I saw this a number of years ago in LA with John Lithgow and Glenda Jackson in the leads, and think I might have to venture out again.
2 - Purple Tigress
I didn't get the chance to see that combination although I like both actors. Obviously the physical dynamics were different and I would guess the psychological ones would have to be as well.
3 - Student
I have recently seen this play in Australia and must say, it explores so many issues and themes that are the core to human emotions. It is a outstanding play that will last through the ages.