By Holly Sloan
There is beauty and elegance in simplicity. In a world where bigger, louder, and brighter might be regarded as better, sometimes the best works of music, art, and even fashion can resonate with an audience through its simplicity.
A.R. Gurney’s Pulitzer Prize-nominated drama “Love Letters” is a testament to that philosophy in theater. The concept of the production, since its inception in 1988, is intended to be minimalist in its design. There is little to no blocking, no costume changes, and all that is used on the stage are two desks where the two actors are to remain throughout the production. Steel Beam Theatre’s production stays true to Gurney’s vision, juxtaposed with a beautiful story about the complexity of life and relationships.
Director Regina Belt-Daniels uses all the tools expertly to create a warm and romantic environment for the audience members. The use of romantic music such as “Unchained Melody,” and the pasteled backdrop mural painted by Barry Norton, creates a sense of intimacy that draws the audience in. Belt-Daniels also makes great use of the only set pieces that accompany the production: two desks. One desk, clean and orderly, the other, colorful and full, are almost characters themselves and open a window to our characters.
Wonderfully cast, “Love Letters,” chronicles the nearly 50-year relationship between Andrew Makepeace Ladd III, played by Rikki Lee Travolta, and Melissa Gardner, played by Deborah Swinford. Through the lost art of letter writing, we are taken through a time capsule of sorts to see the evolution of their relationship from children to adults, and the obstacles they face through their journey together.
The challenge in these roles lies in the fact that the actors remain seated throughout the production, relying on body language, vocalization, and facial expression, which is not an easy task. However, Travolta and Swinford expertly transition from high-pitched happy-footed children, to young adults trying to find their way in the world, to middle-aged people hoping to find satisfaction within their own definition of happiness and success throughout the years.
Travolta does an excellent job as the rather structured and focused Andrew. In the show’s beginning, we almost forget that he is clad in a rather official-looking blue suit and tie. As young “Andy,” the letters to Melissa are full of mischief and curiosity, and he matches that energy through voice and expression. However, you can see that there is a little bit of order to Andy, as he likes to ask questions by number and expects them to be answered in the same fashion.
As Andy matures, you can see how he learns to play the game of life, as his family dictates, through structure and rules, especially through his writing. Despite his success, he is desperate to hold on to his true self through his letters to Melissa, even through his rise in politics.
Deborah Swinford brings her A game to the “desk” as Melissa Gardner. Dressed in bold colors and flowing skirt and scarf, Swinford stays true to Melissa’s free spirit who insists on pushing the boundaries that are set by those around her.
As Melissa’s life takes a few dark turns, Swinford , without the use of blocking or movement, makes a seamless transition of emotion. Scoffing at the use of letters occasionally, Melissa prefers closer communication such as the telephone or face-to-face meet-ups, which is ironic considering that all of her face-to-face, or romantic, relationships seem to flounder. Yet, despite the initial failed attempt at a physical relationship with Andrew, she considers him to be “it”, the one who knows who she really is.
Simplicity can be beautiful, life is complex. “Love Letters” is all of that, which is why it’s content and structure make it a show that has been presented over again using such acting greats as Liza Minelli and William Hurt to name a few. I had the rare privilege of seeing former Utah Jazz (NBA) head coach Frank Layden and his lovely wife Barbara perform “Love Letters” for a benefit at the Salt Lake Acting Company in 1993.
Steel Beam Theatre’s production is also a limited engagement, special fundraiser, running through March 3. For tickets call (630) 587-8521 or go to: https://steelbeamtheatre.thundertix.com/events/223766
Steel Beam Theatre is located at 111 W. Main Street in downtown St. Charles, IL. The theatre is wheelchair accessible.
Photo credit: Tim Curtis
Holly Sloan is a Crystal Lake resident and former middle school teacher and theater director. A Bernese Mountain Dog enthusiast, she appears on stage occasionally but can often be found in the audience as Northern Illinois’ Greatest Community Theatre Groupie.
