East of Eden

In the role of Ganesha (as well as a tour guide, waiter, and small child, among others), Bill Yule surpasses his previously fine work, performing with a precision and power nothing short of divine. Remarkably, he makes a Hindu God come to life. The rest of the cast is adequate, but they could be better if they would stop emoting, stop trying to "act." Edna Schwab, as Katharyn, gives an honest performance but allows herself to fall into the artificial rhythms of Pedar McCormack (in various male roles) and Adriana Keathley (Mrs. Civil). Neither McCormack nor Keathley destroy the production; they simply do not trust their instincts, and instead resort to stagy line readings and gestures. The problem is so simple to fix that I'm sure de Acha will make the necessary adjustments before the run is finished. Once corrected this production will be as perfect as Lord Ganesha.

Terrence McNally manages to reach the grandest goals of art within two brisk hours. He tells an exciting story, conveys wisdom, builds believable characters, and at the same time deals with such social issues as AIDS, motherhood, racism, and female aging. How does he do it? Don't ask. Just go to New Theatre and experience the trip. Or as Ganesha would advise, "Ssh.