Penguin Rep Theater "Greetings!" Opens Minds

One of the best things about the holiday season is the dazzling Christmas light displays that glow from every house in suburbia USA.

As a kid, they fill one up with wonder and excitement. As an adult, well, who do you think hangs the dreaded things up every year?

Tom Dudzick's "Greetings!"—playing at Rockland's Broadway quality theater Penguin Repertory—tells a beautiful, thought-provoking story of a working class Catholic family at Christmastime.

A holiday play without being a holiday play, "Greetings!" gives the audience a lot to think about and discuss. The first act starts out with Phil Gorski (played by Richard Kline, known by many as "Larry" from Three's Company) and his wife Emily (playeed by Beth Fowler, known for her work on Broadway) preparing their home for the return of their son Andy Gorski (played by Rusty Ross).

Emily and Phil Gorski's other son, Mickey (played brilliantly by Jonathan Fielding), sits on the floor decorating the Christmas tree and playing with the nativity. Appropiate behavior for a much younger son, however, Mickey is a mentally challenged 30 year old.

The first act makes the play seem as if it's going to be about family and people's differences. Andy comes home and brings home a girl with a Jewish name. And if that wasn't bad enough, she's atheist.

The dialogue between Fowler and Kline keeps the play moving as the other characters try to act playful with each other, an effort which is awkward at times.

However, once Fielding opens up, the real plot begins. Act 2 is a wonderfully written journey that safely allows audience members question their beliefs and ask huge questions such as "Why are we here?" and "Is there a God?"

The rest of the show is delightful, completely making up for the slight oddness of the earlier playful scenes.

In addition to the fabulous acting, the lighting and set design need to be applauded. The set, designed by James J Fenton, is extremely authentic, from the plastic cup and different chair that Mickey uses to the pile of VHS tapes lying in the same way anyone who lived through the 90s remembers. 

The lighting, a crucial element to the show designed by Martin Vreeland, was perfectly subtle. Aside from the flawless effects, each cue focused the audience effectively, keeping the entire show seamless.

Everyone, no matter who you are or what you think, needs to see this show. Not only is it enjoyable entertainment, but it has more to say than anyone can even reference in a review. "Greetings!" is sensitive and mind-opening; do not miss it!

"Greetings!" plays through June 12. Information: (845) 786-2873 or penguinrep.org.