Review by John Joseph Fahey
The Huntington Theatre is the venue for the pre-Broadway run of Matthew Lombardo’s Tea At Five, the one woman play starring Faye Dunaway.
Many might remember Ms. Dunaway in the popular 1967 Bonnie and Clyde, with whom she portrayed Bonnie Parker, opposite Warren Beatty’s Clyde Barrow and the equally popular movie seven years later which she won both an Academy Award and Golden Globe Award – Paddy Chayefasky’s satirical Network.
Directed by John Tillinger, Tea At Five focuses on Katherine Hepburn; Dunaway’s portrayal of the legendary actress is not only convincing, but poignant in her recollections of a life replete with both personal misfortunes as well as professional struggles. And now, in retirement, Hepburn is called back to the profession that was her life but she is uncertain if returning is the best decision.
For those not familiar with the ending, well, attending this excellent production will dispel any uncertainty.
Dunaway’s notable performance easily allows the audience to suspend its disbelief as the depiction of Hepburn is so realistic, so genuine; and, partly so given the openness of particular topics that so shaped her life. Tea At Five continues at the Huntington, located at 264 Huntington Avenue until July 14; for tickets, contact bostontheatrescene.com or call (617) 933-8600. Tickets can also be obtained at the Calderwood Theatre, Boston Center for the Arts on Tremont Street.
