A review by Gregory M. Alonzo, Strak Insider, 03.17.11
The Dumb Waiter"... Despite the talented cast and uncommonly effective minimalist design elements, it’s the less successful work.
Gus, as played by Conor Hamill, is the younger of a pair of hit men summoned by a faceless “organization” to await the arrival of their mark in a dark and dingy basement. The job is evidently routine, but for the first time Gus begins to express concern about his place within the overall plan.
... as an actual dumbwaiter is introduced, the play takes a somewhat surreal turn... And if it were not for the compelling turns by Hamill and Fahy, it might very well be too much to ask. The denouement does ultimately make sense, but the pay off is not wholly satisfying."
The Lover"the second of the two plays on the program is, in a word, magnifique!
...Pinter’s examination of the games that people play suggests that one’s emotions are not so easily compartmentalized... Sarah, performed to perfection by Nicole Helfer, greets her husband’s curiosity with a deliberate candor that masks a well-nigh imperceptible reticence. The ensuing events could easily devolve into common melodrama, but Pinter throws us an ironic curve that’s far more intriguing.
A set of riveting confrontations inevitably take place, showcasing some of the most outstanding acting I’ve seen on stage in quite a while. Featuring a marvelously controlled intensity, Stender’s commitment and mastery of his craft is truly exemplary.
... Miss Helfer... There isn’t a false note in her performance as she fearlessly traverses a complex range of emotions with a sublime agility... her ability to totally inhabit her character-in mind, body and soul-is a genuine revelation!
...I cannot recommend your attendance at the Phoenix Theatre more highly!"
The full review is here
www.starkinsider.com/2011/03/theater-review-sex-and-death-a-night-with-harold-pinter.html