Mullingar tells the story of an unbelievable romance between two farmers on their neighboring farms in Ireland. This charming comedy is written by Pulitzer Prize winning writer, John Patrick Shanley (Doubt and Moonstruck).
This intimate slow to the punch tale of love and understanding had the audience on the edge of their seat whispering words of hope that the love story would prevail over the insane yet relatable barriers the texts provides.
David Kenner, who gave winning portrayals in Hamlet and Red at the Rep, returns to give life to a completely new and innovative role. His take as a man silently suffering due to human error is astonishing. Kenner brings a calm, warm personality, that slowly unravels and becomes a beautiful, suffering, yet relatable creature named Anthony.
His equal in every way is the beautiful Kim Stauffer. Who plays the stern, wonderful, surprising next-door neighbor named Rosemary. Stauffer's character absolutely takes control of the story and situations in the first act. Which thanks to Shanley's writing, creates an uphill battle that's beautiful to watch in act two for and by the actress.
Laurie O'Brien and Kenneth Kimmins play Aoife and Tony, respectively. As the withering parents at the end of their lives both actors make the most of their limited time on stage.
All four actors give wonderful performances in this slow-burning love story. The direction is forward and smart. The staging is pristine. And the comedy is beautifully written. Forget watching an old Katherine Heigl movie, instead get tickets and to Outside Mullingar. You'll feel freed, educated, and a little bit satisfied. Outside Mullingar runs through October 16 at Capital Rep.
