From the 1980 movie “Ordinary People” to the 2005 award-winning book by Joan Didion “The Year of Magical Thinking,” writers have struggled with how the death of a family member tears the unit apart.
The off-Broadway, critically lauded play “God’s Ear” by Jenny Schwartz — billed as a comedy — comes to Rep Stage to explore that familiar terrain. The story centers on married couple Ted (Paul Morella) and Mel (Julie-Ann Elliott) and, to a degree, their young daughter Lanie, after the couple’s son drowns while at a family outing on the beach. Adding to the pain is the turmoil of watching the boy on life support before he dies, causing the couple to question their actions, their motives and their very relationship.
What’s intriguing is the way Schwartz has her characters tackle the grim issue — by talking to each other, acquaintances and even themselves by using platitudes, clichés and bits from psychological pundits such as Dr. Phil.
“Own up,” “Start Fresh,” “Act like a man” are some of the phrases the characters repeat again and again.
That’s an interesting juxtaposition considering Ted continually happens upon others whose children have died and Mel can’t seem to competently do even simple tasks — or console her young daughter.
Directed by Helen Hayes Award-winning director Kasi Campbell, the characters mix just the right amount of despair and forced calm to fully express the grief they feel while carrying on with their lives.
Although I find it tough to think of this production as a comedy — especially considering some of the verbal shredding Mel and Ted inflict upon each other — it does have light moments. A brightly costumed tooth fairy (Barbara Rappaport) gives us some insights into the journey after death. A wonderfully plastic-haired GI Joe and transvestite flight attendant — both artfully portrayed by Matthew Eisenberg — also lighten the mood while keeping the story moving.
Perhaps most stunning in this production is the lovely a capella interludes by most of the cast members including young Lauren Williams, who plays daughter Lanie (the smart money says watch for her acting career to take soar).
In a production that explores the grief and rebuilding that survivors undertake, “God’s Ear” gives fresh insights.
If you go
God’s Ear
Where: Rep Stage, 10901 Little Patuxent Parkway, Columbia
When: Through April 26
Details: $15 to $30; 410-772-4900, repstage.org
