John Rubinstein gives a powerful performance as the lawyer, the central figure in Elmer Rice's 1931 play, Counsellor at Law. He brings a dynamic vitality to a part that fills the theater. His acting has the depth, dimension, strength and charisma of a star, and that is just what this old, fascinating look into the life and office of an up-from-the-gutter achiever in the 1930s needs. (Paul Muni did it on Broadway, and John Barrymore did the movie.) With a good surrounding cast including Robert O'Gorman, Beth Glover, Lanie MacEwan, Mary Carver and Tara Sands, director Dan Wackerman keeps things clicking and jumping as the twenty-one people in the cast enter, react, exit, and we're on to the next crisis -- all well-costumed with 30s flavor and flair by Amy Bradshaw. Chris Jones' excellent set and Tyler Micoleau's subtle lighting are just right. Sit back and visit the views, the energy of our grandparents' era. It's a soap for all time, and the audience loves it.
