While ‘The Crucible’ and ‘Death of a Salesman’ probably are not at the top of the average college theatergoer’s list, Syracuse Stage’s production of ‘The Price’ may change minds about playwright Arthur Miller’s street credibility and humor capacity.

Miller takes a step back with ‘The Price’ by giving audiences a play that is easy to understand, yet still as complex in message as his earlier works. The story follows two estranged brothers -one a police officer who cared for his dying father, the other a successful doctor who seemingly abandoned him.

The two brothers are brought together when the time comes to sell the father’s remaining furniture and property. This leads them to confront the fear, resentment and hurt that has plagued the family since the boys’ adolescence.

The play deals with the American Dream, moral questions and an incredible character study, said Victor Lazarow, an associate professor and the acting program coordinator at Syracuse University. But he also says the play’s greatest strength is its message. He said the moral question that it puts forth is your responsibility to life, your parents, your family and your self-worth.

Timothy Bond, producing artistic director of Syracuse Stage and the Syracuse University department of drama, helms the play as director. A cast of four comprises the show, including Tony DeBruno and Richard McWilliams as the pair of brothers, Walter and Victor, respectively. Carmen Roman is cast as Victor’s wife Esther, while Kenneth Tigar from ‘Lethal Weapon’ takes his turn as Arthur Miller’s greatest comedic character, Gregory Solomon.

Alison Lang, a musical theatre junior, said while she has not seen ‘The Price,’ she respects Arthur Miller’s work. ‘I like him, but it’s really old-fashioned writing,’ she said. ‘It’s not contemporary, so it can be hard for us to connect.’ Regardless, she recommends the production.

‘I hear ‘Alice in Wonderland’ is the show to see this season,’ she said. ‘But to branch out, this is a good option.’

Lazarow said the play is a must-see for college students. ‘Miller is our greatest American playwright. If the opportunity is there, you should grab it,’ he said. ‘It’s a great play. It’s very Arthur Miller. It’s a very gripping, very upsetting piece.’

Arthur Miller’s ‘The Price’ is now open and runs through Feb. 14.

gmillerj@syr.edu

Published on January 27, 2010 at 12:00 pm