The Talking Band's new production, New Islands Archipelago, written and directed by Paul Zimet, has the feeling of a band of old-time Mummers in this performance-art piece taking place on a cruise ship. This is high-level theater in all aspects with an accomplished cast who act, sing and dance. All the characters are odd, but all the actors, including Todd D'Amour, James Himelsbach, Kristine Haruna Lee,
Bianca Leigh, Ellen Maddow and Steven Rattazzi, are totally believable. It's an
extraordinary piece, filled with imagination, full of humor based on character, and surprises.
The design by Nic Ularu, creating the inside of a ship and an ocean, is brilliant, and lighting by Nan Zhang is excellent. Costumes by Olivera Gajic are perfect for these skewed characters as their domestic dramas, including elements of silent film, with a Madoff scheme mixed in, unfold. Video projections by Simon Tarr give dimension and scope to the entire production. Ellen Maddow's music, well-played by
Harry Mann and Beth Meyers, is original, and enhances everything. Choreography by Hilary Easton is clean and clear in this fun play performed by its talented, versatile cast. Thru June 6th at 3LD Art & Technology Center
