Susan Granger’s review of “John Lithgow: Stories by Heart” (Quick Center/Fairfield Univ.)
As Thanksgiving approaches, my gratitude goes to Fairfield University’s Quick Center for the Arts for the opportunity not only to appreciate the arts but also to see unique theatrical performances like this close to home.
Conceived, written and consummately performed by John Lithgow, “Stories by Heart” is an evening of storytelling, consisting of personal reminiscences, a poem and two classic short stories from a well-worn anthology. As Lithgow recalls, they were read to his father Arthur and his siblings by his grandmother in their Massachusetts home. Arthur Lithgow was a regional stage actor/director/producer who passed on the storytelling tradition to his children. So when Arthur was in his 80s, recovering from serious surgery, John reversed roles, reading to his ailing parents before they went to bed each night.
Incredibly charming and versatile as an actor, John Lithgow assumes multiple roles, including a parrot, during P.G. Wodehouse’s frothy “Uncle Fred Flits By,” a yarn about a timid, young Londoner who accompanies his eccentric uncle on whimsical journey into the English countryside. There’s an
intermission – then Lithgow begins Act II with a bizarrely rhyming folk ballad, “Eggs and Marrow Bones,” about adultery and murder, which leads into a full-length recitation of Ring Lardner’s “Haircut,” in which he embodies a gossiping, small-town Midwestern barber, giving a shave and trim to an unseen customer. It’s a dark monologue that reflects turn-of-the-20th century Americana, a twisting tale that involves a beautiful woman, a doctor and a mentally challenged young man.
Best known as an Emmy and Tony Award-winning actor, John Lithgow’s heart is in literature, specifically, storytelling. His plummy, resonant voice lends itself to a variety of audacious impersonations and transformative characterizations, and his uncanny ability for pantomime rivals the best in the business. Having acknowledged his considerable craftsmanship, I must also admit that Lithgow’s solo memoir stretches a bit too long. He says he added a second act when he sensed his audience wanted more, but I think – in its entirety – the evening could use some judicious pruning.
John Lithgow’s “Stories by Heart” played at the Quick Center for the Arts on Fri., Nov. 15, 2013, for one-night only – but it’s on tour around the country in various theatrical venues. Catch it if you can!