I really want to say something positive about "Three Irish Widows versus The Rest of the World," Ed Malone's one-man performance at Stage Left Studio as part of the 1stIrish Theatre Festival.Last year I saw three 1stIrish productions and loved each one for its professionalism, fine acting and intimate theatre space. So, I was really looking forward to "Three Irish Widows."
Cheryl King greeted audience members warmly as they arrived at the 6th floor of 214 W. 30th Street in Manhattan, the new site of her Stage Left Studio performance space. The "black box" space, which is really painted red, accommodates an audience of about 20. we settled into our folding chairs in the front row with great anticipation.
Malone, who also wrote "Three Irish Widows," based the play on his mother and two aunts back home in Cork. After losing her husband, each woman sets out to look for love. The dearly departed were not always dearly beloved we learn.
Malone uses each woman's real name, so lucky they have not seen it performed, because the tales about their adventures in New York, Spain and India range from humorous to crude. It leaves you feeling embarrassed for his mother most of all. It seems that Malone is processing some of his own issues about growing up and a bout of alcoholism at the expense of Maura, Breda and Margaret.
The stage is completely bare except for a very frenetic, curly-haired Malone dressed in cargo shorts and an old plaid shirt.
I would love to return to Stage Left Studio to see another production with a little more heart and a bit more art.
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