OUR APOLOGIES -- ' THE ALTRUISTS' HAS BEEN MOVED TO SPRING OF 2012
Magenta Giraffe Theatre Company of Detroit is staging a timely production of The Altruists, written by Nicky Silver. The production, directed by Molly McMahon, opened November 11 and runs through December 3, 2011.
In an age in which it seems everybody has a cause, it’s sometimes hard not to be skeptical … or even discouraged. Whether you are cheering for the Tea Party or Occupying Wall Street with the 99%, one can’t help but wonder if everyone operates under the purist of motives.
That’s the question raised by The Altruists. It’s a dark comedy that provides an unflinching look at the sometimes shallow motivations behind people’s political actions and relationships. Fortunately, per Nicky Silvers’ style, this bitter medicine is served with a stiff shot of comedy.
This is the story of Sydney, a soap opera actress, who is found to have committed murder. Her ‘selfless’ friends, who spend their time attending protests and throwing stink bombs, must find a way to keep her out of jail if they are to continue using her money to fund their political activities. Meanwhile, Sydney’s brother Ronald has struck up a relationship with a young male prostitute who seemingly has the firmest grasp on reality -- and ethics -- of anyone. Someone must make a sacrifice to maintain the status quo, and the climax of the play presents a grim perspective on the hypocritical stances of many so-called altruists.
'The Altruists is an energetic romp filled with lots of laughs that still manages to pack a political punch at its conclusion,’ says director Molly McMahon. ‘This production will please patrons looking for escapism as well as those looking for a play with socio-political themes.’
The cast includes Jonathan Davidson (Ferndale), Jill Dion (Pleasant Ridge), Peter Giessel (Rochester Hills), Alysia Kolascz (Ann Arbor) and Cal M. Schwartz (Dearborn). Adam Crinson exhibits his scenic design; lighting by Neil Koivu; costumes by Lauren Montgomery.
The Altruists appears at 1515 Broadway, Detroit, behind the cafe, right across from the Detroit Opera House. Tickets are $15-$18, with pay-what-you-can tickets available at all performances. Tickets may be reserved by phone at 313-408-7269 or at the Magenta Giraffe website.
Performances are Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 p.m., with one Sunday matinee on November 27. Audience members paying the full ticket price may wish to take advantage of Magenta Giraffe’s ‘Repeat Offender’ offer: Once you've paid the suggested rate for a ticket and would like to see the show a second, third or fourth time (yes, they cater to theatre lovers) just bring back a paying customer each time and see it free of charge!
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