Saturn Returns

Two thumbs up for Noah Haidle’s play, Saturn Returns at South Coast Repertory.

On a whim, @PadrePablo and I decided to get rush tickets.  It’s only the second time that we’ve seen a show at SCR.  The first time we saw a preview showing of Hamlet.  We’re both 2 for 2 and impressed with the caliber of plays right in our own backyard.

The story follows Gustin Novak through three phases of his life: at 28, 58 and 88 years young, though not chronologically.  At each stage of his life you see Gustin interact with a different woman who brings equally different meaning to his life: Loretta, Zephyr and Suzanne.  Each of the different relationships is a reaction to an experience he’s had throughout his life in a small Michigan town.  “Saturn” is a reference to the nearly 30 years that it takes for the planet to make one orbit around the sun.

The three female characters are brilliantly and uniquely played by one actress, Kristen Bush.  And each Gustin, (Nick Ullett at 88,  Conor O’Farrell at 58, and Graham Michael Hamilton at 28), plays a stubborn, hardened, and simultaneously gentle father and husband.  I laughed, cried, giggled and scoffed.  Saturn Returns is a story full of emotions and keeps you completely entertained for the full 80 minutes.

Turns out it was the preview evening.  But as fresh off rehearsal as the cast was, it was a great show and worth every dollar.

With Opera Pacific having folded half way through the last season, I often worry about SCR’s fate too.  But if they continue to feature well-written and well-played scripts like Saturn Returns… I don’t think there’s much to worry about.

The play runs through November 22 at SCR.