DYKSTRA AND GREENBLATT: IMMENSE HUMOUR AND INTENSE ENERGY
by Lee Mallott


2 Pianos, 4 Hands
by Ted Dykstra and Richard Greenblatt
Directed by Gloria Muzio
Vancouver Playhouse until October 11
Tickets: 873-3311

This Canadian hit opened last September 18th and was a huge audience success. The comic accounts of aspiring musicians were well played with immense humour and intense energy between Ted Dykstra and Richard Greenblatt. I must say even though my musical background is not extensive, I found great enjoyment in both the dialogue and repetoire of music, including diverse excerpts ranging from Elton John and Charlie Brown's Theme to the great classics.

The script laid the stage well for the simple yet effective set design of a pair of grand pianos and 'focused' lighting. As one looks below the surface of the stationary set, the trials and tribulations these musicians move through in their lives are not unlike those of individuals pursuing their dreams, sensitive to the positive and negative effects of life's realities. This is the power of the play. Whether or not your appreciation is the piano, your heart is touched by the beautiful musicianship.

This play was originially produced by Tarragon Theatre in Toronto, and will open at New York's Promenade Theatre on October 30th. Acclaimed New York Director Gloria Muzio is 'fine tuning' the production on the Playhouse stage prior to its New York debut.