Hot In Little Rock

On Friday night, we had the pleasure of one of our favorite night’s out: going to opening night of The Rep.  The current production?  Frost/Nixon by Peter Morgan.

Have you seen the movie that came out a couple of years ago?  We have – several times.  This is the play that came before the movie.  And we were excited to see the similarities and differences.

Opening night is always a festive occasion – and one we try never to miss.  The set is simple, but works very well for the quick scene changes that happen throughout the play.  And the actors, of course, are superb.  Brad Heberlee plays David Frost, a flashy talk show host whose understanding of politics is minimal, at best.  Nixon is aptly played by Keith Langsdale.  Trish Clark has designed the costumes to superbly to capture the essence of not only the time, but the personalities of the characters.  From the flashy suits of David Frost to the presidential blues and lace-up shoes of Nixon, the costumes were spot on.

Director Gilbert McCauley is no stranger to The Rep.  This is the fifth production he’s directed here.  Through his direction and the talent of the cast and crew, the story of how David Frost’s now-famous interview with Nixon came to be, and what Frost elicited in that interview come to life beautifully.  Even those who hated Nixon find humanity behind the presidential cover.

Some people only attend the musicals and comedies produced by The Rep.  Don’t do that!  You’ll be missing out on a whole crop of talent and thought-provoking acting.  This is another wonderful production by The Rep – and one you need to make plans to attend.

Frost/Nixon
The Arkansas Repertory Theatre
601 Main Street

Through May 9, 2010
Call (501) 378-0405 for tickets or visit
www.therep.org