Theater Online - New York Theater Reviews

  

Fun. Witty. And most of all, entertaining.

Performing at the Hudson Guild Theatre, Theatre Askew’s production of, “Cornbury: The Queen’s Governor”, is a lighthearted rendition of William M. Hoffman and Anthony Holland’s work. Set around the turn of the 18th century – anachronistically between the late 1600s and early 1700s– “Cornbury” revolves around the actions and exploits of its title character, Viscount Cornbury, the Honorable Edward Hyde, during his Governorship of early New York. Directed and choreographed by Tim Cusack, this presentation seems to fall somewhere in between a Shakespearean history play and an extended skit from “Whose Line is it Anyway“”

Both loved and hated – not in equal amounts – Edward Hyde was historically known for his transvestism, mismanagement of public and private monies, and general amorality. Taking some (actually many) historic liberties, Hoffman and Holland rework Cornbury into an intellectual and cultural revolutionary, bringing the Dutch into a new age of enlightenment along with the growing population of New York. Played by David Greenspan, Edward Hyde comes across as witty, fanciful, sexual, and at times altruistic. While mindful of Hyde’s irreverence for almost anything, the audience is posed with the question of, “What is to be revered?” Supported by a mixed cast of professionals, Greenspan successfully portrays a multi-dimensional Cornbury, from his superficial nature to his surprisingly kind heart.

  

Corbury’s Jewish advisor, Spinoza Dacosta, played by Ken Kliban, and the comedic barmaid confidante, Molly, played by Nomi Tichman, are two other players from the cast not to go without mention. While developing Greenspan’s character and the Cornbury story line, Kliban and Tichman deliver some pleasantly surprising moments and overall strong performances.

Besides the acting in “…The Queen’s Governor” applause should go to Mark Beard for his set design. The detailed flats (backdrops), props, and other painted scenic pieces were impressive. From viewing the Guild Theatre’s faux proscenium upon entry to the cast’s voyage back to England on a fantastical sailing vessel, no minor detail went overlooked. Sadly, the same cannot be said of Cornbury’s costuming: while the color palette and overall design worked for the piece and time period, the execution left something to be desired. Granted, it could be argued that the designer took a slightly farcical interpretation with certain articles of clothing – characteristic of the script overall – though if so, it would be incongruent with the majority of the costuming choices, which were done well.

While one might disagree with director Tim Cusack for some of his interpretative choices in "Cornbury," he is to be commended for selecting this piece and for his appealing directorial choices in general. Some scenes could have gone more in depth to the conflict of Edward Hyde’s character, but why? The humor, though often paralleling “dick and fart jokes,” kept everyone entertained while revealing some inherent truths, at times causing everyone to question their sensibilities. A message, some laughs, and a good evening at the theatre … agreement or not, what's not to like?