Actors, directors on mark in ‘Sea Horse’

By Eric McCrea

news@ vindy.com

The Hopewell Theatre started the New Year off right with a powerful two-handed drama that premiered in 1974 but hasn’t lost its impact. “The Sea Horse” by Edward J. Moore examines two loud and defensive people at a crossroads.

This dialogue-heavy play featured a pair of well-written, blue-collar characters struggling with the walls they hide behind. Set in a bar called the Sea Horse, it takes an intimate look at people with unfortunate pasts and the hurdles they face in moving on.

Rosalyn Blystone, in her directorial debut, cast two strong actors who could handle the dynamics of the script and the physical intensity required. Her blocking made excellent use of the Hopewell space, and her set was visually striking and functional.

Her attention to detail was most noticeable with sound cues that matched the side of the stage where they happened.

Brian Suchora played Harry Bales, a rough-gripped sailor, determined to take his relationship to the next step, wherever that may be. Suchora was put a warm tone under his headstrong optimism. His explosive moments were right on the mark, tempered to a degree that kept his role approachable.

Lori George was incredible and ferocious as Gertude Blum. She was great at showing a subtext of fierce protectiveness as Harry tried to learn about her past. Her abrasive qualities were so realistic that it seemed like she would never even consider Harry’s proposal.

Suchora was also adept at handling the prose-like transition that happened when Harry started talking about his boat talking to him. As he described how the world opened up to him, he slowly got Gerti to open up as well.

George delivered a phenomenal performance. She made Gertrude’s strength undisputable while her need for companionship painfully apparent. George also has a great laugh that fit her character like an old boot.

“The Sea Horse” is considered a defining part of the love-overcoming-barriers genre, and it’s one that has shown it stands the test of time.

Blystone took excellent care of this script, making sure it didn’t lose interest.

The Hopewell has shown some adaptability, recently updating its seating and adding risers to make itsauditorium adjustable.

This new versatility is serving them well and has improved the view of the stage.

“The Sea Horse” can be seen at 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday and at 2 p.m. Sunday until Jan. 13. For reservations, call 330-746-5455.