Studio Arena Theatre marks milestone with psychological thriller

by Rustie Dimitriadis
Lewiston Porter Sentinel - November 6 2004
Grand Island Dispatch, Niagara Wheatfield Tribune - November 11-12, 2004

Studio Arena Theatre continues to celebrate its 40th anniversary season with "Murder in Green Meadows," the 300th play of the theatre's rich and varied
history.

Written by Douglas Post and directed by Gavin Cameron-Webb, the play began as an Emmy-nominated television collaboration. This is the story of two young couples living in a picturesque Chicago suburb, who seem to embody the American dream. The audience soon learns, however, that this attractive quartet is actually the epitome of dysfunction, stemming from issues of control and isolation.

The sunshine the audience initially sees through the windows of Thomas and Joan Devereaux's pristine model home eventually gives way to stormy conditions, as a murder is committed in the idyllic Green Meadows subdivision. The growing storm outside mirrors the darker side of these complex characters, steadily revealed as the story progresses.

Incidentally, thunder is among the details that add to the effectiveness of this production. Sound Designer Rick Menke is to be applauded for his fine use of sound effects. Simple things like the sound of a drink poured down the drain and the amplification of exterior sounds when the front and back doors open combine for an impressive overall effect.

In addition, Technical Director Amy Myers and her crew did a fantastic job with the rain machine. The on-stage rain during a pivotal scene of the play serves to enhance the show's authenticity. "Murder in Green Meadows" is a mystery that lives up to its billing as a
top-notch thriller, with truly unexpected twists. Superb performances are turned in by all four actors: Lauren Bone, Kristen Kos, Ian Lithgow (son of
actor John Lithgow), and Paul Todaro.

The show runs through Nov. 14, with performances Sundays at 2 and 7 p.m., Tuesdays at 7 p.m., Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m., Thursdays and Fridays at 8 p.m. (Thursday, Nov. 11 performances are at 2 and 8 p.m.), and Saturdays at 4 and 8 p.m. Studio Arena Theater is located at 710 Main St., in Buffalo at the corner of Main and West Tupper streets. Call 856-5650 or 1-800-77STAGE for more information or visit www.studioarena.org.