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By Maria Jones Directed by Stephen Underwood Reviews GOOD
THEATER DUO CAST HILARIOUS 'STONES' "What do you get when you put two chameleon-like actors on a virtually empty stage? At Good Theater, you get magic." "Stones in His Pockets is a devilishly funny Hollywood satire featuring 20 quirky characters, all played by Brian Chamberlain and Christopher Reiling. It's a marvel to watch Chamberlain and Reiling switch from one character to another with a turn of the head or a slide of the feet. The changes are done at a madcap pace that leaves the audience eager to see what personality will pop up next." "One minute Chamberlain could be leprechaun-sized, leaning on an imaginary cane as Mickey, and the next minute be the caddy Aisling, relaying instructions to the extras. Reiling pops back and forth between such varied characters as the narcissistic Caroline and her brutish bodyguard, Jock. It's hysterical." "Stones in His Pockets is the directorial debut of Good Theater's co-founder, Stephen Underwood. The production shines with comic genius, and is a definite testament to the hard work of its stars." GOOD THEATER'S DUO THROW
A FEW STONES "…some twenty different souls - are channeled via the remarkable virtuosity of just two actors: The excellent Brian Chamberlain and Christopher Reiling slip in and out of leads and extras alike in the Good Theater's superb, must-see Stones in his Pockets, a comedy about actors and acting, and a fine directorial debut of Stephen Underwood. "All these people cavort in close proximity to each other, which calls for great speed and dexterity. And gloriously, hilariously, these two young actors are pure quicksilver. Costumes, set, and props are all minimal, the better to showcase the richness of Chamberlain's and Reiling's own resources: falsettos and eyebrows, limps and lips are all in the service of some impressive characterizations." "Such is the two actors' virtuosity and rapport, in fact, that before long we're too absorbed by their characters to keep on marveling at how well they're pulling them off. That speaks volumes of their talent, and the effect is also vital for the show's power. Because while Stones is certainly meant to showcase theatrical chops, there's more at stake: a deep concern for the untold lot of the common guy." GOOD
THEATER'S MUST-SEE! "…a knockout. The production was a continuous burst of comedy and drama that related a story of small-town values and entertained with an impressive range of skills from the two actors, Brian Chamberlain and Christopher Reiling." "Jones' drama, which is set in rural County Kerry, Ireland, found a kindred spirit in the precise and careful directing of Stephen Underwood…a tour-de-force of vocal and visual talent." "The play is about two extras and it is their story, not Hollywood's. This production is an absolute must for anyone who enjoys truly great theatre." STONES IN HIS POCKETS "It's impressive to watch Chamberlain and Reiling populate a whole cast by themselves. They prove nimble in body and mind, leaping fluidly from role to role, making each character quite distinct. Director Stephen Underwood has prepared his two-man troupe well." Stones
In His Pockets
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