This year's second play at Orlando Shakes, Yankee Tavern.  All seemed to agree a very worthy show but certainly a departure from the normal fare we usually get from this Troupe.  Much more on the serious and thoughtful side, you left this show pondering a whole host of questions about what really goes on in Capitalist America.

Our favorite character Ray, played by Jim Ireland is a lovable "itinerant homesteader" who has a Michale Moore opinion about every topic imaginable.   We are treated to his diatribes on Starbucks, the moon landing, hanging chads,  even weddings which he claims are a conspiracy made up by the very businesses who profit most.   But there is no topic more on the minds of New Yorkers in 2006, than 911.  

Definitely a show worth seeing but it's one that requires lots of thought and attention and is much more akin to a documentary than a work of fiction. You leave with many more questions than when you arrived and the play never really gives you a sense of resolution or closure.  I suspect that is intentional because the referenced world events leave you with that same unresolved feeling.  I understand playwright Steven Dietz has many alternate endings and it seems Director Anne Herring chose well.


Cast:
Adam:  Current Owner of the Yankee Tavern, son of deceased former bar owner Vince. Adam played by Zack Robidas
Ray:  Was Vince's best friend and remains Yankee Tavern's local color
Janet: Fiance of Adam played by Katherine Skelton
Palmer:  Bar patron played by Tom Nowicki


As always, the acting and direction are superb.   I have to comment about how much Katherine Skelton looks like Reese Witherspoon.