Coming in strong with their contribution to spooky season, Falcon Theatre brings us the regional premiere of Mindgame by Anthony Horowitz.
When writer Mark Styler decides to try and land an interview with a notorious serial killer in order to pen his next true crime folio, his visit to the asylum is anything but what he could have possibly expected. (Note to readers: this is a story best left vague and it is encouraged for you to go in to the theatre with little to no backstory. Googling is not your friend in this case!)
The Production Team
Director Chad Brinkman wears many hats in this production and spoiler alert: he looks amazing in hats. Not only is his use of the playing space impeccable, but Mr. Brinkman’s scenic design is detailed and impressive. It is always nice to see doors where those of us in know are aware none exist. Kudos to the Set Construction team of Artistic Director Ted Weil and Board members Clint Ibele and Samantha Joy Luhn (who also fashioned the creative lobby display).
Dialect Coach Kate Glasheen works her usual magic along with the talented trio of actors. However, there is one issue which escapes the attention of both Ms. Glasheen and Mr. Brinkman (and possibly the actor who utters it): an Englishman would never pronounce the letter “Z” as “zee”. It is always “zed”. An easy oversight for Americans when reading it in a script, but an important detail which adds to the illusion that this show takes place abroad.
The Performing Artists
In the interest of keeping this review spoiler-free, specific references to characters’ motivations will need to be kept at a minimum.
In a role unlike most he has tackled in his career, Mike Fielder gives a wonderful turn as Mark Styler. Styler has a large task ahead of him in trying to convince the proprietor of Fairfields to allow him a series of interviews with a notorious serial killer in order to complete his contracted paperbound. Mr. Fielder seamlessly pilots this character who starts off in a very different emotional state than he ends.
Mr. Fielder’s partner in crime for this tale is the incomparable Rick Grant who portrays Dr. Alex Farquhar. There is nothing not to love about his execution of the role. Mr. Grant is a dynamic and charismatic actor whose physicality only enhances his acting genius and attention to details. In a show where many puzzles are present to solve, he succeeds in rolling with the proverbial punches without giving too much away. I continue to be impressed by Mr. Grant’s skill as a thespian and look forward to being present in the rooms he chooses to grace.
Last but certainly not least is Rachel Mock as Nurse Paisley. Ms. Mock has the “privilege” of getting to leave and return to the scenes at all the right moments (something her costars do not get to do) and she makes the most of every moment she is present. As with the others, the character Ms. Mock depicts has an incredible journey from start to finish and she navigates said journey effortlessly.
The Sweet and Lowdown
This show is an entertaining exercise for both the mind and senses. Mr. Brinkman has put together a formidable trio of actors. Along with them, he masters “edge of your seat” energy with excellent pacing and urgency. Mindgame is quite literally that–but you’ll be glad you decided to play.
Tickets to Mindgame
Falcon Theatre’s Mindgame runs now through November 16th. Reserve your seats–including the edge of your seats–now by visiting Falcon’s site.
