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Playhouse’s ‘Talk Radio’ tells story of a caustic shock jock
By Eric McCrea
Youngstown
Radio isn’t just for music. Eric Bogosian’s “Talk Radio” explores a night in the booth of a loud, opinionated host who may be about to change the country.
Barry Champlain, played by director David El’Hatton, was a Cleveland-based radio host known for getting his listeners fired up. His boss, Dan, (Paul Dahman) lets him know that he is on the verge of being picked up for national syndication. As Barry handles his callers in his typical abrasive manner, his co-workers reflect on their careers, and the dramatic impact this “shock jock” has had on their lives.
Throughout the show, Barry takes calls from supporters and haters alike, treating them with almost the same amount of respect. He stays cool despite threats from callers, but a concerned message from his potential new employers jostles him, leading him to question his future.
Carlos Rivera was an audience pleaser as the largely silent Spike. His antics added humor and charm to a show that teetered on drama.
Christopher Hager did a fine job as Stu Noonan. He was able to organically stand his ground with Barry, while still being loyal to the job. His monologue was the best of the night, and he didn’t pull focus.
Paul Dahman was a bit of an enigma as Dan Woodruff. He comes off professional and decent, but there was an undeniable latent sliminess to his character. Dahman didn’t seem to emphasize the good or bad in his character, but merely let them exist. Like a fine wine, he was well balanced.
Renee Cuerden was a delight as Linda MacArthur, Barry’s co-worker and occasional love interest. Her look was subtle, but spot on, really adding to the ’80s feel. She had the class of a WKRP Loni Anderson. She humanized the story and projected sympathy onto Barry.
Making a brief appearance, Justin Donatelli showcased his great costuming skills as the punk fan Kent.
Serving both as director and lead seems to be where El’Hatton belongs. He was insightful and nuanced in this role, which was practically custom written for him. Pulling double duty seemed to have sparked a familiar commitment in him and brought out his best.
A couple of dozen callers, played by a handful of multi-casted actors, were integral in turning this play into a radio show, instead of just people talking about their radio jobs. Collectively, they all impressed, but Terri Wilkes’ Betty and Adrian Arnold’s Debbie were both standouts. The unmistakable timbre of Victor Garcia also was a welcome addition.
Bogosian’s script is fairly solid, although the climax feels rushed. A fair amount of adult language makes this inappropriate for the under 18 crowd, but a show worth seeing for anyone else.
“Talk Radio” will run Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. For reservations, call The Youngstown Playhouse at 330-788-8739.