Continuation....



Now, keep in mind the fact that all this is taking place with the actors seating
and reading the play, instead of moving around the stage. But do not be fooled.
They were definitely acting and doing it wonderfully. They could express the 
emotions and the development of the characters perfectly from their chairs. In 
this sense it was even more impressive to see how well these actors could reach
out to the audience with just the tone and inflections of their voices.

Steven was extremely good. He poured himself into his role and it was easy for
the audience to feel the pain and insecurities of his character.   He was also 
surrounded by great talent, especially Ms. Ross. One of the most memorable 
moments of the play belongs to her. In a scene in which her character starts 
laughing she is so believable and natural, that she takes the audience with her 
making us all laugh, for SEVERAL minutes. It was a contagious, incredibly long 
laugh that made several of the actors on stage smile.

Another highlight of the play for me, as a fan of Mr. Culp, was the scene in
which he sings! Let me tell you, "I Got you Babe" will never be the same again! 
It was a real joy to see him singing the song with Jo as the couple spends a 
quiet time together.  Yes, he sounded good, and I truly enjoyed hearing him 
sing, even if it was for just a little bit.  (Can anyone imagine Webb lovingly 
singing this song? No!- Which is a shame because I think everyone would enjoy 
seeing this. ) 

The final scene was also an excellent 'read' as Clara chooses to commit suicide
due to her deadly illness. Her friend is there with her and they hold hands as 
they spend their last moment together and make plans to be buried side by side. 

But, the play ends in a good note, as we see the happy future of Luke and Jo 
who have reunited and chose to spend their life together as a family. A nice 
hopeful ending to a moving story. 

Kudos to Marion Ross for her incredible work and to Steven for again shining on 
the stage.  I hope someday they make this story into a complete theater production. 
And hopefully Ms. Ross and Mr. Culp will play the same roles. 



Note:  I was fortunate to talk with Mr. Culp after the play during a small 
reception at the theater. He was looking great and was there with his lovely 
wife Barbara. It was a real pleasure to have a chance to meet her. She seems 
like a real nice lady and looked great. As always Steven was his friendly self, 
a pleasure to talk to and continues to be a class act with his fans. 
Thank you Mr.Culp!