Rich Massabny
Producer/Interviewer/Reviewer   
“Arlington Weekly News TV”
CHANNEL 69

Broadcast (2006): Thurs., 12/7, 6 p.m.; Sat., 12/9,  10:30 a.m.; Mon., 12/11, 8:30 p.m.

THE KEEGAN THEATRE - - “Faith Healer”

The Keegan Theatre which performs a lot of Irish works, and spends time in Ireland doing productions, has now established the New Island Project which, in Keegan’s own words, “produces works in minimal settings allowing vivid characterizations to emerge and capture the essence of Irish theatre—raw, bold and engaging.” Keegan’s first production under the New Island Project is Brian Fiel’s “Faith Healer.” Living up to its mission, this story is a compelling, dark account of the title player, Frank (Eric Lucas), who does a monologue about his life while his wife, Grace (Kenny Walters Lucas) and his friend Teddy (Mick Tinder), sit quietly on either side of the dim, stark stage. Frank then leaves the stage and Grace gives her version of their life together. After her misty, desperate account, Teddy gives his recollections in a slightly lighter vein. The audience, fixated by all three versions, delivered in a heavy Irish brogue, is left with more questions than answers in this character driven piece. It’s easy to forget that you’re watching actors, they’re so believable. Worth a trip back to fully digest Friel’s work. Keegan’s artistic director, Mark Rhea, knows his cast and it shows in his sensitive direction. “Faith Healer” runs through Dec. 23 at Gunston Art Center at 2700 S. Lang St. in Arlington. Call 703-892-0202 for tickets.

Visit Rich Massabny at: www.richmassabny.com