You And I
About the show
Metropolitan Playhouse presents a revival of the first Broadway hit by the author of "The Philadelphia Story," the story of a middle-aged man who is haunted by dreams of the artistic career he forswore at 20. More…
Matey White lives an enviable, secure, conventional life with his wife Nancy and their two children. When he determines to take a leave from business and pick up a paintbrush--just as gifted son Ricky determines to giving up his own ambitions so he may marry the girl next door, a turn in the markets squeezes the family's resources. The Whites must face decisions they thought they'd put behind them—this time, without the naïve confidence of youth.
“Under the skilled direction of Hardart, a cast with a solid understanding of period style captures the complex notes of Barry's style...Not a brilliant work, ‘You and I’ is nevertheless engaging throughout, and, in its ironic finale...it is surprisingly moving. It also stands on its own in its consideration of the soul-wearying effects of the American culture of business...And, even in this early work, Barry's philosophy is clearly stated.” Full Review
"Barry's play would need a far more polished and well-cast company…than presently assembled…to give its dated-sounding dialogue…stagy characters, and plot contrivances the fire they desperately require…Hardart has helped them convey some of their roles' shifting nuances but…they're unable to make Barry's old-fashioned, 'darling'-sprinkled, upper-class locutions sound natural...Hardart's direction succeeds merely in making the two hour and 15-minute running time seem longer." Full Review
"This would be fine if the artificial style of the play and the dated twenties slang did not seem arch and affected. And while director Michael Hardart's production is always stylish and graceful, he has not helped greatly with his casting or his mannered and theatrical approach to the material. The characters talk in an elevated, literate language but … are basically very simple people, not the kind who sit around tossing off bon mots. Here they speak Barry's realistic lines as though they do." Full Review
"Under Hardart's uncertain direction, 'You and I' emerges as a footnote to a notable career, a good-natured but vapid drawing-room comedy whose chief interest lies in how Barry spun so many autobiographical threads into it...It's a sweet play; truly...Love and warmth permeate the stage, every character is well-intentioned...We're not convinced, however, that 'You and I' can still arrestingly hold a stage, or that its themes aren't better stated in other works." Full Review
See it if It's an early 20th century family drama performed by amazing actors. A very, very good play with difficult characters.
Don't see it if Not interested to go to an Off Off Broadway theater which is in an old house that only adds to the feel of the play.
See it if Enjoy intimate performances in small theatre and great acting. Revival of early 20th century play but still relevant.
Don't see it if You prefer big broadway productions or musicals.
See it if you want to experience this production's skillful rendering of gentle & heartfelt characters. This aspect of Barry's writing glows here.
Don't see it if seeing less than perfect plays would burden you.
See it if you'd like to see a somewhat enchanting early 20th century period-piece. Well-written, visually stylized (set, costumes) & well-performed.
Don't see it if you prefer an epic magnanimous boffo production. It's a lovely night out @ the theater, in a great old venue, listening to pretty dialogue.
Also The location adds to experience.... Read more Read less
See it if You enjoy lovingly-resurrected classics from another era. You appreciate thoughtful staging, witty dialogue, and acting with nuance & heart.
Don't see it if You prefer Broadway spectacles. Metropolitan is for those who can appreciate the magic of creative stagecraft executed on a limited budget.
See it if you enjoy a refreshing, clever, riveting, well-crafted play, in a very intimate theater where you feel you are in the room with the actors.
Don't see it if you only enjoy musicals or large productions.
Also This is one of the best plays produced by Alex Roe, Artistic Director ... Read more Read less
Cast & Creatives (13)
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