Exit the King

Tickets and Information

Big Fun
I went to see _Exit The King_ this weekend, with just a tad of reservation. Well, more "dark foreboding" than a "tad of reservation." I was almost certain that Eugene Ionesco and I would never understand each other. I discovered that I was right, and also that I dont need to understand someone to enjoy them. Take the French for example. I found myself completely absorbed for two and a half hours. This 1963 revival was directed by Neil Armfield hailing from Australia and performed at the stunning Ethel Barrymore Theatre. The small cast is headed by Geoffrey Rush, Lauren Ambrose, Andrea Martin and Susan Sarandon. The strong, often absurd characters work in perfect concert with each other and the set design. It is a credit to Mr. Armfield that the small cast, top heavy with powerhouses, works as a synchronized ensemble. The storyline and references of _Exit The King_ are shockingly modern. Yes, 1963 was not /that /long ago, but the political references are so current, as to be somewhat depressing. What have we been doing for the last 45 years? Its probably more a testament to Ionesco than a critique of our current culture, that makes this play feel so modern. The king and the natural resources are all dying, but Andrea Martin will make us all forget it. She is a gem, and I am delighted that she has been on the New York stage at least three times in the past year On The Town, Young Frankenstein. Lauren Ambrose Romeo and Juliet, Hamlet is ethereal and stunning and will rule the Broadway stage at some point. Geoffrey Rush is incredibly physical throughout this play. He is a dynamo and very very funny. The doctor William Sadler and the guard Brian Hutchinson were both quite good, although I must confess to picturing Tim Conway in the guard. Mr. Hutchinsons mannerisms were either lifted from the "Old Man" character, or I just watched far too much television as a child. Ms. Sarandon spent most of the play in profile, and seated as I was in the fourth row, I was mesmerized by her two tone make-up neck brown, and face white to give definition to the jaw line. I was also quite taken with her very large tattoos and thumb ring. Im guessing Mr. Armfield lost that round. Her performance was not terribly interesting. The body accouterments plus the Playbill biography omitting all acting credits, and simply citing "motherhood and activism" as her accomplishments scream "star." I much prefer watching an actress than a star. My only hesitation in recommending this production is that I had incredible seats. Im not sure if I would have enjoyed it as much in the balcony. Seated front and center, I truly felt swept up.

Reviewed by Brenda_1054748 on Monday, May 11th, 2009

I Would See This Again and Again
I could not wait to see Exit the King because I am a theatre hound... I saw Sweeney Todd 5 times because Angela Lansburys Mrs. Lovett was so rich, I wanted to take it all in. And now there is another thespian master in town - and Ive got discount tickets... It was fun and I was not disappointed. There will be no spoilers about the show, other than it is sensational. I was truly expecting the wrong kind of absurd. Its not weird. This play is amazingly relevant and as easy to follow as Dick and Jane. At no time during intermission or after did I hear anyone complaining that they "didnt get it". The older folks seemed very pleased as did the young people, and it was great to see such a mix of age groups on a Saturday night. I dont understand what all the hub-bub was about Susans performance and "monologues being too long"! Susan ate up the stage! She was fabulous and her voice was terrific and we were in rear mezzanine, thank you! I was delighted. Her character is amazingly fascinating - a force to be reckoned with on several levels. All the actors were strong, and of course Geoffrey Rush is phenomenal. This is good theatre. I suspect Ionesco is near, at least somewhere where he can leap for joy! I have to see this yet again. What to do with all that money you?ve saved on your discount tickets? I am proud to say that there are no souvenir ETK keychains, playing cards, shot glases, etc., ad nauseum for sale. What is offered is a lovely ETK poster signed in silver pens by the entire cast $150 and a series of 3 color 8x10s of various cast members, all signed, not for SALE, but available FOR A DONATION of $45 each or all 3 for $100 to benefit Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS. Buckets are made available to accept all donations.

Reviewed by Dweediecat on Sunday, Apr 19th, 2009