Posthumously Speaking is receiving its world premiere at Westminster Theatre under the direction of Susan Murphy. The work is penned by Robert I. Landis. It opens with a monologue by Gabriel (Tom Haine). Yes! That Gabriel! He is, of course, in a white suit with white accessories and a dash of almost invisible sparkles.
Jim Taylor (Jerry Marcu) died last night. His wife Marilyn (Amee Wood), son Richard (Matt Speredelozzi), and daughter Elizabeth (Leslie Miller) are in shock. Reverend Worthy (Alex Sandie) provides solace for the bereaved family. A family friend with a motor-mouth, Mrs. Figment (Diane Neil), is in attendance as are Arthur Fielding (Frank Safley) and Claude Colby (John Steinmetz) who represent Jim's corporation.
For most of the first act, Gabriel is preparing Jim for his "journey to beyond," which does not require the physical manifestations necessary in life.
The family not only has to deal with Jim's death but with the continued management of his corporation. Fielding was Jim's right-hand man, the obvious choice to take command. Colby is a sleaze-ball who needs to be fired. The children, both nearly adults, have their doubts about both men.
The play takes a delightful twist when Beezie (John Steinmetz) vies with Gab for Jim's soul. Steinmetz's portrayal of the devil's relative is pure delight, even if it is way over the top. The contrast between his character and Gab, both in garb and in delivery, make for much amusement.
The other actors, playing normal folks, do convincing portrayals. Watching Wood span the emotions from the loss of her husband to taking the helm of the company and the final involvement with Fielding is exciting.
The playwright created an interesting interplay between the deceased and his wife. While strange, it works. The director's blocking is not so convincing. Vanguard is a projection stage, which can cause blocking problems. More than once we have characters in conversation but facing the audience, which feels awkward.
Also to the play's detriment, Beezie proves much too stereotypical. His devil character promises so much that the conclusion could only go one way. While the performance is excellent, the lines need work. In describing his offer to Jim, Beezie takes on the characterizations of a promised female butler. Steinmetz goes from funny to hilarious.
The traditional combat between good and evil plays nicely, making Posthumously Speaking a work in progress with a good beginning.
