INDUSTRY REVIEWS

Vagabond Players Offer ‘The Good Doctor’ at the Raven

By Trish Ostroski

Neil Simon’s “The Good Doctor” is freely adapted and suggested by the short stories of Anton Chekhov. So this is all the plus if you are a Simon or Chekhov fan. The production consists of 10 short acts and each a story in itself.

Lewis Hauser directs the versatile production. The actors included Michael Homeier, Brian Greene, June Newberry, Mary Dryden and Michael James Thompson. The stories are interesting and varied and many of the actors have an opportunity to stretch their performing muscles by playing several characters.

I particularly liked Dryden’s turn in a few of her roles, especially in “The Governess” a piece that themed on manipulation and teaches a lesson. I have seen Homeier perform a number of times, and he is always apt in all of his roles. However, I felt the production would have been strengthened if the Vagabond Players would have included a few other actors. Homeier’s characterization and costuming did not vary all that much in the scenes, and he was in nine of the 10 acts. Greene added nice energy and fun in his appearances, which added to the variety.

This production is ideal for a small space such as the Raven offers and adds to the intimacy of the production. The stories are rich and interesting, and the actors do a commendable job with their facial expressions to add just a bit to each character.

“The Good Doctor” runs on Fridays and Saturday evenings at 8 p.m. through Nov. 12 at The Raven Theatre, 5233 Lankershim Blvd. in North Hollywood. Tickets are $20. Discounts for seniors and groups of five. For reservations call (818) 206-4000 or visit www.thevagabondplayers.com.