Unpleasant is, perhaps, the kindest comment about June Buckridge (Priscilla Allen), who plays Sister George on a BBC radio drama. She drinks excessively, speaks in angry tones and hasn't a kind word for anyone, including her lover Alice "Childie" McNaught (Laura Bozanich). The domineering, combative and arrogant June is, nonetheless, worried about her job on the sitcom, worried about her relationship, and worried about her life. She's a not-nice person surrounded by much nicer people.
The Killing of Sister George, while garnering a Tony on Broadway for actress Beryl Reid, proved to be controversial, especially in San Diego. A story in which the principals are lesbians is still controversial in some circles. The piece, however, is about relationships and a serious career reversal. It is an extremely well-structured play, with dialogue as crisp now as it was 35 years ago. The Killing of Sister George -- one of the ways to get rid of a character in a radio series -- explores (in depth) Buckridge and her relationships. Childie, her companion, is much younger, submissive and repressed. Her squelched affections are placed on her doll collection, but she is not without hope. Mrs. Mercy Croft (Jenni Prisk) a BBC spokeswoman, is a messenger of the corporation, and a wee bit more. Toss in, too, a flamboyant neighbor Madame Xenia (Jillian Frost).
As June, Allen's performance is a tour de force, ranging from nastily demanding to whining at the thought that Sister George would leave the cast in a most ungracious end. Allen could easily dominate the stage at all times but knows when not to. Bozanich, whether being a sycophant or, rarely, standing up for Childie's rights, is in total control of her character's soul. Prisk's Mrs. Croft, the messenger Buckridge would love to kill, is properly an all-business, all-corporate spokeswoman when it comes to the fate of Sister George. Prisk offers a glimpse into an unexpected side of Mrs. Croft. Frost's Madame Xenia is frenetic -- a whirl wind of activity, advice and neighborly concern. She is a delight to watch.
The Buckridge flat, which has a masculine flair to it, is a total homage to this B-rated star. Other than the doll collection, few touches suggest that Childie does, in fact, live there. David Weiner's set appears to reflect Buckridge's personality with his use of wood and colors. The set decoration further defines the radio star. Lighting by Jennifer Setlow is simple and direct, giving the flat a nice look. George Ye's sound design teases the audience with 35-year-old music and the proper effects when needed. Shulamit Nelson's costumes absolutely define each of the roles.
This cast, under the direction of Tim Irving, is a joy to watch in this dark comedy exploring an interesting, if abusive, individual.
