Review: Of Good Stock is a must see!

Last night I was privileged to be invited to preview the new play opening tonight at Valhalla Boathouse Theatre. In a word, "WOW!"

Of Good Stock is a multi-faceted production with lots of layers to unravel. The power of family is graphically on display. The stellar cast is perfectly selected; I'm continually amazed at the talent in our town. How do they memorize those fast-paced lengthy lines? The language in this play is lofty with clever references, yet still very naturally spoken. A heavy dose of sarcasm does lighten the dark moods that play out. There is cursing, so this show is not for little ones, but a sophisticated tween would get it. Sardonic wry wit runs throughout the storyline, as the three Stockton sisters address the elephants that are in the room at this birthday dinner from h***.

By the way, the set design is very inviting, you feel like you're in the house with these people, and boy are there ever uncomfortable family dynamics at play. The si personalities are intense but sympathetic. Brace yourselves as things will get pretty raw in the second act.

There was so much laughter from our small audience, and tears too. I always like to ask my seatmates, tell me in three words your review, here's what they said: "emotionally meaningful," "just absolutely amazing," "powerful," "moving," and "right on target."

And from the last couple getting in their car in the parking lot, "GO SEE IT!"

The stars are Ginger Nicolay-Davis, Michelle Sennings and Diana Arington Evans as the three sisters, and Ryan Adams, Thomas Lopez and Tom Callahan as their partners.

Of Good Stock can be seen at the Valhalla Boathouse Theatre Oct. 26-29 and Nov. 2-5. All showtimes are 7:30 p.m. For tickets, visit HERE.