REVIEW Simple set plays up stark nature of 'J.B.'

The performers were directed to stress the poetic quality of the work.
By L. CROW
VINDICATOR CORRESPONDENT
SHARON, Pa. -- Director D. Abbey Alter says her interpretation of Archibald MacLeish's "J.B.," now in production at Walnut Lodge, may be a little different from others.
MacLeish, an atheistic humanist, wrote this modern retelling of the biblical story of Job as a reaction to the horrors of the world wars, the Holocaust and the bombing of Hiroshima and other cities.
Alter, owner of Walnut Lodge, doesn't stress any religious or spiritual viewpoint in the play but says suffering is a condition of the world.
The play is set in a circus, and the balloon vendor, Mr. Zuss (Christopher Ferensik) plays the part of God, while the popcorn vendor, Mr. Nickles (Sam Perry) plays Satan. The set for this production is a simple scaffold, from which these two spoke many of their lines. J.B. (Lawrence Latsko) and Sara (Valorie Dunch) played their parts on the stage below the scaffold, or on the floor off the stage. Since Walnut Lodge is actually an old church, Alter and her crew have become pros at using this small space in creative ways.
Abstract nature of play
J.B.'s children were represented by Mr. Zuss' balloons, two blue and three pink. During a Thanksgiving dinner scene, the balloons, attached to a strap, were placed beside the table. J.B. and Sara spoke to them as if they were children, while voices backstage spoke their replies. After the dinner, the balloon were returned to Zuss, who released each one upon the death of each child, allowing it to float to the ceiling "up to the heavens."
"Sara [J.B.'s wife] is the one who changes most," Alter said. "At first, she believes that God is the one who rewards and punishes, but in the end, she thinks that it has nothing to do with rewards and punishment, but it is all about how you deal with what comes your way. She no longer thinks she 'owes' for what she has. And she understands that keeping love in your heart is what is most important."
Alter, who also teaches yoga and dance at Walnut Lodge, says she was interested in the movement and rhythm of the words, and therefore, she directed the actors to stress the poetic quality of the work.
This compelling production is very well performed and is recommended for those seeking greater understanding of life's challenges at a time when so many still suffer.
It runs Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 6:30 p.m. Walnut Lodge is at 80 S. Irvine in Sharon. (724) 346-4746.