At the Jane Mallet Theatre. Written by Jeff Baron. Directed by Jen Shuber. Designed by Cameron Porteous. Lighting by Lesley Wilkinson. Sound by Adam Haredorf. Starring Theodore Bikel and Aidan deSalaiz.
Produced by the Harold Green Jewish Theatre.
VISITING ME GREEN is an uncomplicated, predictable play about irascible Mr. Green, an 86-year-old New York Jew and Ross Gardiner, a 30 year old New Yorker who has to do community service by visiting Mr. Green once a week. Ross nearly hit Mr. Green with his car. Ross says Mr. Green walked into traffic without looking. No matter, the judge sentences Ross to 6 months of weekly visits.
During that time truths are told; secrets shared; and prejudices and hurts. It’s a gentle play. You can see the conclusion a mile off.
Theodore Bikel as Mr. Green, is masterful. His timing is impeccable. Aidan deSalaiz as Ross Gardiner, is not masterful. His acting is obvious and even leaden at times.
VISITING MR. GREEN is unchallenging fare that will tug at the heartstrings of some. The rest of us will be dry-eyed.
VISITING MR. GREEN plays at the Jane Mallet Theatre until February 18.