GERRI GARNER’S ENTERTAINMENT FILE
American Radio Network, 5287 Sunset Blvd., Hollywood, CA 90027
323 464-4580

August 15, 2002
BETRAYAL

At the Pacific Resident Theatre in Venice they are presenting a production of Harold Pinter’s classic “Betrayal”. This is one of the more accessible of Pinter’s works. Analogous to the affair Pinter had with John Bakewell in the 1960’s.

It is the dissection of a marriage, told at the end of the eight year affair, and recreated backwards to the beginning. Similar to the recently popular film “Memento”.

Two men who have been life long friends from their years at the University. Robert (Richard Fancy), a book pulblisher is married to Emma (Suzanne Ford). Jerry (Stephen Hoye), is his employee who seeks out books for publication and is also Emma’s lover. It isn’t hard to see why. Robert is a stiff chap without much warmth, where as Jerry, who is also married to a dedicated doctor has joie de vie, and is charismatic. So Emma getting involved with Jerry and even questioning her own choice of a husband makes sense. The real scandal here is the Betrayal between the two men.

The cast is convincing with strong performances. This well manicured, flawless production, smartly directed by Tom McDermott on John Berger’s efficient set with Keith Stevenson’s excellent sound design that highlights the changing atmosphere and time line.

“Betrayal”, playing at the Pacific Resident Theatre located at 703 Venice Boulevard, plays Thursday through Saturday at 8:00pm and Sundays at 3:00pm. For reservations and information please call the theatre box office at Area Code 310 822-8392.