The Purchase Repertory Theater presented “American Visions” – a set of three one-act plays by Sam Shepard – from Feb. 9 through Feb. 16 after having its opening night postponed by winter storm Nemo.
“Having six shows is very different than eight shows – Broadway previews last two weeks, and the run of our show is usually two weeks long – we don’t even get the gist of being in front of the audience,” said Sophia Zukoski, an acting junior and Carol in “Red Cross.”
“Sometimes days off can provide a distraction and may seem like a free day; that is actually really detrimental to any performer,” she said.
While being a disappointment to the actors and especially the director, the cancellation of the Feb. 8 performance of “American Visions” did not hinder an exemplary performance the following night in front of a large audience. The production showcases the absurdist plays “Icarus’ Mother,” “Red Cross,” and “Four Hundred Thousand” written by Sam Shepard and directed by Zenon Kruszelnicki.
Absurdist works are based on the theory that the universe is irrational and meaningless and an individual is drawn into conflict when searching for order.
The backdrop of the play is a transparent American flag that changes colors leading to greater adaptability during scene changes and a possible exhibition of the mood projected to the audience.
“Icarus’s Mother” takes place on a beach with a group of idle teenagers. It seemed that certain actor’s performances were stilted, but the overall impression of this play was that it was an interesting, thought-provoking piece.
“Red Cross” was the most inspiring and lively performance of the night. It exuded the utmost energy that engaged the audience and intermingled humor with on-stage physical antics peaking a dynamic performance.
“Missing the opening night is disappointing, because so much energy is built up. Red Cross was ready to be in front of an audience a week ago the delay was just sad, frankly,” said Zukoski.
The last one-act “Fourteen Hundred Thousand,” showcased a fascinating viewpoint on civic planning and social engineering. The acting, while having its own merit, was rather sequential and far too linear for a work of this depth.
Overall, “American Visions” was visually stunning with many talented actors working on enigmatic and intellectually inspiring works creating a new vision of America.