The focus of the play is on the age old battle of inclusion and recognition. It’s redeeming quality is the fact that this subject must be brought to the forefront until change occurs. Professor Janine and her student Zoe have their own idea on how and/or this can be accomplished.

The creative staff truly worked together on this one. Chris Cavanaugh ( the lighting/ sound designer) chose a very soft lighting which created a sense of intimacy, and his choice of The Beatles “Imagine” set the tone for the production. Spencer Dick (Scenic designer) chose to use wood, a natural material associated with the emotion of anger, which  was visually appealing. Wood exemplifies the energy of growth, change and pushing through. Also earth tones giving the set a sense of stability and grounding which was exactly what Janine’s character required.,Books simulate experience, and Diane Almeter Jones (properties designer) filled the stage with knowledge. Amaya Mack (costume designer) also chose earth tones and appropriate wardrobe for professor and student. These four along with Gabe Gutierrez (head Carpenter) created an amazing work of art.

Two actors on stage for two hours with minimum space requires skill and imagination. Similar to a game of checkers it’s important to keep the pieces moving to hold the players… and in this case the audience attention and support the actors. Well done, Gabriella Jean McKinley (Director).

Pamela Rose Mangus (Professor Janine) gave a stellar performance! It’s the little things that make a character come to life. Things that cannot be written in or requested by a director. Small gestures that we as human beings naturally, normally do.

Anika Pace (Zoe college student) possesses a powerful presence and a great sense of timing. Anika is new to the Buffalo Theater community and has a very promising future. Welcome, I look forward to your next endeavor!

Thanx Emma English (stage manager) for holding the whole thing together!

The Niceties, By Eleanor Burgess, A Second Generation Production, on stage to March 2, Shea’s Smith Theatre, Runtime 2 hours with a 10 minute intermission. Details and tickets at http://www.sheas.org.