Production Values Don’t Save a Weak Play at GCTC

The Great Canadian Theatre Company has opened their season with “Generous” by Michael Healey. The play is the first of a trilogy that includes “Courageous” and “Proud,” the latter produced by GCTC a couple of years ago.

The play’s structure is fractured. The four scenes in Act I seem to come from different plays. The first, set 15 years ago, features a frantic group of Parliamentarians trying to avoid a no-confidence vote. The second, also 15 years ago, introduces a venal oil executive. In the third, now in the present, a judge and young law clerk both try to justify a one-night stand and in the fourth a couple has an odd gymnastic quarrel involving a bucket of Kentucky Fried Chicken.

Some of these plot lines come together in Act II, but only structurally rather than emotionally and don’t go anywhere. “Generous” is basically about seeking power, both political and sexual, but leads to no new understanding of the various motivations behind the search.

I realized that all my notes were about the technical production, not a good sign. Jennifer Goodman’s V-shaped set has two doors with louvered panels on each side and various set pieces that quickly move on and off. It works very well and looks great, especially with Jock Munro’s creative lighting. His various uses of light through the louvers are subtle and effective. I also really liked the music by Keith Thomas, especially the pieces reminiscent of Django Reinhardt.

Eric Coates’ direction is solid, as is the cast, and there are some very funny moments. However the characters as written are superficial and we neither see nor understand their motivations. Drew Moore as Alex comes the closest to believability, since we see him grow and attempt to change.

My problem is with the play. Like “Proud,” “Generous” is full of clever word play, but to what end? Being a fan of Michael Healey, who is usually an interesting playwright, I was disappointed to realize the most memorable line in “Generous” is, “So???”

 

“Generous” plays at GCTC through September 27   Tkts: 613-236-5196

 

Creative Team

Michael Healey: Playwright

Eric Coates: Director

 

CAST
Matt Cassidy: Peter/Richard
Marion Day: Julia/Tommy
Drew Moore: Alex/Eric

Adam Pierre: David/Len/Scotty

Katie Ryerson: Lily/Cathy

Kristina Watt: Maria/Marc

 

CREATIVE TEAM
Jennifer Goodman: Set & Costume Designer
Jock Munro: Lighting Designer
Keith Thomas: Sound Designer

Laurie Champagne: Stage Manager

Shara Weaver: Movement Coach

Jacki Brabazon: Apprentice Stage Manager