The Glass Menagerie:

When I first saw the 1944 Tennessee Williams play The Glass Menagerie, I left with one thought going through my mind over and over: "This is why I want to be a writer." So naturally, when I heard that this favorite would be the first main season show at Roger Williams University's Perform­ing Arts Center this year, I was quite excited; however, I was also a little worried that this produc­tion might not live up to my own mental standards set by the last production I had seen. Now, it is a very rare occurrence that I am wrong (lie), and an even rarer one when am happy about it. But when I was allowed to sit in on several of the rehearsals, I dis­covered that it was one of those fortunate occasions where my expectations were pleasantly exceeded.

I should have known that my worries were without warrant with director Robin Stone be­hind the wheel of the produc­tion, as I was rather impressed by his directing of the spring show, "A Patch of Earth." While The Glass Menag­erie doesn't deal with issues as apocalyptic as genocide, Stone delivers this classic with the same gravity as his last.

The play follows a 1940s family of three. Tom, the bread winning son, who also acts as the play's narrator, struggles with his desires to escape his present situation while trapped by his responsibilities to his family. Meanwhile, Amanda, the family's southern bell matriarch, becomes fixed on finding a "gentleman caller" for her daughter Laura, who suffers from a slight walking "defect" and crippling shyness.

Being unaware of the quality of the fine shows offered at the Performing Arts Center until my junior year, I was denying myself the privilege of seeing sophomore Natalie Brough (who plays Laura) in her previ­ous performances; it is a mis­take I will not make again. And while I had seen senior Rebecca Murphy (Amanda) on stage be­fore, it was a great joy to finally see her where she truly be­longs: in the limelight. Her acting abilities continue to impress.

Audience members will also get a look at some of the new talent here at RWU, both of who recently appeared in This is the Rill Speaking. Freshman Mike Tiberio gives an impressive performance as the desperately sought after gentleman caller. And recently transferred junior Karson Baird captures Tom's frustration and bitter humor with all-expected finesse.

Sadly, I'm sure I cannot give this production all of its due praise. As I could only view the rehearsal (I wanted this review to reach you fine readers before the show opens), certain aesthetic details were still being finalized. For this reason, I will be going to the opening night of the show to make sure I take this show in for all that its worth. I do hope to see anyone with this paper in their hands treating themselves to a nice evening on campus on opening night.