June 13, 2011
Barefoot in the Park was written by Neil Simon in 1963 and adapted into a 1967 film starring Jane Fonda. It is based on a newly married couple’s experiences in their first apartment: Corie and Paul Bratter. Corie is childlike, mischievous and spontaneous. Paul, her husband, is more serious, dedicated to his work as a lawyer, with a very dry sense of humour. The actors in these roles were convincing, energetic and the interactions between the two were extremely funny in places.
The play is primarily concerned with adjustments which may be necessary when living with a new partner. Corie is reminiscent of a small bird, fluttering about the apartment whilst Paul is more stolid; he simply wants a quiet life.
The other main characters in the production are Ethel Banks (Corie’s Mother) and Corie and Paul’s neighbour Victor Velasco. These characters added to the general amusement of the production and were played well.
The apartment in this production is shown simply as the stage set and is supposed to be small and on the top floor of the building; resulting in a recurring joke as the actors come to the stage gasping with exhaustion. The Michael Pilch Studio is small too and whilst this may not fit other productions, is perfect for this, where the small space of the apartment adds to the character of the play.
The set was well used by the actors as they moved fluidly around it and also used the wall to the right of the audience as a ledge outside the building. The use of the entire space meant the play felt very intimate and inclusive of the audience.
Barefoot in the Park was funny, entertaining and a lovely way to spend a summer’s evening; I enjoyed the production and would recommend it.
The play is primarily concerned with adjustments which may be necessary when living with a new partner. Corie is reminiscent of a small bird, fluttering about the apartment whilst Paul is more stolid; he simply wants a quiet life.
The other main characters in the production are Ethel Banks (Corie’s Mother) and Corie and Paul’s neighbour Victor Velasco. These characters added to the general amusement of the production and were played well.
The apartment in this production is shown simply as the stage set and is supposed to be small and on the top floor of the building; resulting in a recurring joke as the actors come to the stage gasping with exhaustion. The Michael Pilch Studio is small too and whilst this may not fit other productions, is perfect for this, where the small space of the apartment adds to the character of the play.
The set was well used by the actors as they moved fluidly around it and also used the wall to the right of the audience as a ledge outside the building. The use of the entire space meant the play felt very intimate and inclusive of the audience.
Barefoot in the Park was funny, entertaining and a lovely way to spend a summer’s evening; I enjoyed the production and would recommend it.