Mesmerising affair (From Droitwich Advertiser)

Mesmerising affair

1:36pm Tuesday 2nd February 2010

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Review - Frankie and Johnny in the Clair de Lune, Festival Theatre, Malvern, until Saturday, February 6.

WE, the audience, almost felt like interlopers in a love affair in this most intimate of offerings.

Just the two actors in a one-room New York apartment and most of the action revolving around the bed, and with it a little nakedness.

Hollywood star Kelly McGillis, who gained rave reviews for Top Gun with Tom Cruise and Witness with Harrison Ford on the big screen, is the despairing waitress Frankie spending a Sunday morning in March 1987 with Johnny (Rolf Saxon) - two people who have found love later in life.

The play and Ms McGillis seemed a little uncomfortable at first - it almost seemed she was trying too hard - but she soon mellowed and matched her on-stage partner with an equally warm and beautiful portrayal.

It was quite mesmerising at times. There was a real intensity from the duo thanks to the quality of their performance, Terence McNally's fine script and a near perfect set.

Saxon shone from the outset in a role that could have been crafted for him. He made it so believable.

Overall, an excellent offering - including a brilliant McGillis monologue relating to Johnny - and an emotional roller-coaster which stirred the soul through to a satisfying and cosy conclusion.

VRW

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