Theatricum brings poet’s play to life





By Lori Porter
porter@theacorn.com

"Under Milk Wood," the emotionally charged poetic play written by Welsh poet Dylan Thomas, opened in Topanga on July 10 at The Will Geer Theatricum Botan-icum as part of its summer repertory season.


Theatricum’s 20 cast members performed a perfect production under the direction of Ellen Geer at last Saturday’s performance portraying Thomas’ shady characters with precise language, animation and force.


Directing "Under Milk Wood," an unconventional play about unconventional people, is no easy feat. Originally written for radio in the early 1950s, it’s the only play Thomas ever completed. He described "Under Milk Wood" as a "play for voices." He died shortly after "Milk Wood" was finished in 1953, and the play was published posthumously in 1954. It became the poet’s most famous piece.


"‘Under Milk Wood’ is one of the most heartwarming pieces with the most beautiful language. It’s a delight for the ear," said Geer. Containing more poetry than prose, "Under Milk Wood" could be compared to a progressive jazz performance where melody lines are rare but the music is sophisticated and phenomenal. It’s the use of poetry that reveals the emotions and thoughts of the performance’s characters—not straightforward dialogue.


Thomas could get away with such a diversion by not telling a story but by taking a voyeuristic look into the lives of characters from a typical Welsh seaside town. "Under Milk Wood" recounts the dreams, gossip and waking hours of people over the course of one day in the sleepy oceanside village of Llareggub.


Geer’s direction is brilliant because the play is without a plot and it only uses poetry as communication. Each actor plays more than one role, often changing character on stage. The transition is smooth and the acting is always professional.


Audiences expect Geer’s productions to be beautifully choreographed and executed, and "Under Milk Wood" is no exception. Although just in its second week, it was already approaching perfection.


Although it’s performed with great skill and attention to detail (especially costumes and accents), those who dislike poetry probably wouldn’t enjoy it.


"Under Milk Wood" runs through Oct. 9. For performance or ticket information, please call (310) 455-3723.



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