The Outgoing Tide
Bruce Graham’s “The Outgoing Tide,” now on
view at The John Hand Theatre on Lowry, is a play that addresses questions about
death and dying we all have to face about loved ones who are aging. Beyond that
it makes us all aware that at some point we’re all going to have to address
these issues for ourselves.
Steve Tangedal directs this three-person
play with a sensitive light touch.
Jim Landis turns in an admirable portrayal
of Gunner, a man who is frustrated with the dimming of his mental faculties and
concerned about providing for his family after he’s gone. Landis’ ability to
lapse from a giddy semi-lucid elation to confused disorientation at the
inability to remember the simplest of words is remarkable.
Jim Landis and Deborah Curtis
Jim Landis and Deborah Curtis
Deborah Curtis( "The Road to Mecca" and "Death by Design") portrays Peg, a wife and
mother who does all she can to provide options, which she believes will allow
for the possiblilty of her husband’s comfortably “aging in place.”
Adamo Pinti is Jack, a son who finds
himself moving from denial to acceptance of his father’s final wishes while
dealing with conflictual memories of the past.
Jeffrey Jesmer’s scenic design for their
summer cottage on Chesapeake Bay is thoroughly well done. Jesmer’s creation allows us to see the aging
Gunner sitting on a pier in an armchair while appearing to fish.
Steve Tangedal’s very fine lighting design
is one of the best features of this production.
The sound design by Luke Allen Terry is his
usual professional work.
Greg Alan West’s costume design - especially
that for Mr. Landis - is spot on.
Compassionate and ultimately heart
breaking, the play comes with high recommendations.
For tickets go to
firehousetheatercompany.com or call 303-562-3232
The John Hand Theater is
located at 7653 E. 1st Place, Denver, CO 80230
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