The New Phoenix Theatre is the perfect setting to experience Connor McPhersonis play, iThe Good Thief.i The unassuming venue is very intimate and quaint. From the outside, the theater has the appearance of a large house; on the inside, this theateris blackened walls provide a simple surrounding that allows the audience to be immersed in the story being told.
I caught last Fridayis evening performance of this one-man show. Performed by a drunken Irish thug (played by Brian Riggs), iThe Good Thiefi regales the audience with the thiefis musings after a night of hard drinking. As the thief sets up the story he is about to tell, the audience receives some insight into his character: iI hate people who have skills and can do stuff,i he so eloquently complains. The thief tells his narrative, complete with a variety of characters and actions that he recreates for the audience.
He addresses the audience as if they were his buddies, and recites his monologue, filled with bawdy pub language. Riggs wanders around the theater, climbing into the raised seating areas, mixing in with the audience. The audience actually becomes part of the thiefis stage as he roams about.
Brian Riggs is incredible in the role of the thief. His energy and passion make you forget that youire watching just one man, as he mimics the other characters that are involved in the tale. Kelli Bocock-Nataleis direction is also superb. Mixed with humor, tragedy, pain, and violence, iThe Good Thiefi is an intense and enjoyable experience.
iThe Good Thiefi is now playing at the New Phoenix Theatre (located on 95 North Johnson Parkway) until April 2nd. Shows are Thursday, Friday, and Saturday at 8pm, and Sunday at 2pm. Admission is $25 for the general public and $20 for seniors and students with ID. Call 629-3069 or go to www.roadlesstraveledproductions.org for tickets and information.