Patrick Marber’s Closer comes to the El Centro Theatre in Hollywood

Adapting previously performed material is always a challenge for a small theatre company, particularly when the work in question has achieved a high level of notoriety. In these cases the production must not only create an effective suspension of disbelief, but must also convince the audience to look with fresh eyes upon something that they have likely seen before.

Such is the daunting task faced by the Alpha Company in their adaptation of Patrick Marber’s Closer, the much-acclaimed British play that was nominated for a Tony award in 1999 and made into a feature film in 2004 starring Jude Law, Julia Roberts, Natalie Portman, and Clive Owen. On opening night at the El Centro theatre, the cast and crew of this latest production rose to the occasion and delivered a fine emotional performance worthy of the play’s heart-piercing ambition.

Set in contemporary London, Closer traces the love lives of four different personalities whose lives weave together themes of sex, love, truth, and betrayal over four years. There is Dan, an aspiring writer and unrepentant liar, Alice, the romantic and mysterious young ingénue, Anna, an accomplished and experienced woman who nonetheless falls for Dan’s charms, and Larry, a self-described “observer of the human carnival” and obstinate believer in the truth. In scene after scene these characters are pitted against each other in a tense struggle that, like most relationships, doesn’t ever reach a neat and tidy conclusion.

The set design is simple but effective, taking advantage of projection and lighting to create a dynamic environment that was able to smoothly transform the Chaplin stage from a sterile hospital waiting room to a chic London flat to a crowded restaurant. Also adding to the emotional feel of the piece is the music, which showcases a variety of indie artists from all around the country, including L.A.’s own Kawehi and Laura Martin, Chicago’s Derek Ryan, Remix Villain from Boston, and Seattle’s Reed. International artists include Simon Mason XXX, Conil, and T from the UK as well as the German band The Endorphins. The somber melancholy that pervades much of the play is enhanced quite well by this moody, pensive soundtrack.

But ultimately Closer is an actor’s play, and the four that took the El Centro stage on opening night strove to distinguish themselves from their A-list Hollywood counterparts. Mark Kay stepped into Jude Law’s shoes as the endearingly smarmy Dan, and brings a natural charm and sophistication to a difficult part. Kirsty Hinchcliffe and Stefan Hajek excel in the more mature roles of Anna and Larry, verbally sparring with vigor in some of the play’s most pivotal scenes. And Jakki Jandrell delivers a courageously vulnerable performance as Alice, the character who provides the emotional backbone of the piece.

Closer is intended to stimulate, to provoke, to spark conversation between friends and lovers about the insecurities that are the undercurrent of all of our relationships. Alice tells Dan as he is leaving her, “I love you. Why isn’t love enough?” Closer doesn’t attempt to answer that question, but like all great theater implores the audience to ask its own questions and seek its own answers.

Closer, El Centro Theatre, 804 N. El Centro Ave., Hollywood, 90038 (323) 960-7770
Through March 29. All shows at 8pm. Tickets at box office or at www.plays411.comCLOSER, Patrick Marber’s provocative drama, is currently showing at the El Centro Theatre Thursday, Friday and Saturday, till March 29. All shows are at 8pm.

The El Centro Theatre is located at 804 N. El Centro Avenue, Hollywood, CA 90038. 

Regular ticket prices are $15.00 for adults and $10.00 for students and seniors.

For reservations and information go to www.plays411.com or call 323-960-7770.