ROMANTIC POETRY at MTC's Stage I

(Seen 11/4/08)

John Patrick Shanley has had many moments of triumph in his long and successful career as a playwright, screenwriter, and director. So it is even more incomprehensible why his better judgment didn't tell him to leave this inconsequential and muddied theatre piece in some bottom drawer or forgotten storage trunk.

Instead, obviously indulged by Manhattan Theatre Club's creative team, he has collaborated with composer Henry Krieger, to direct his own musical (book and lyrics). It is a haphazard descent, with trivial and banal lyrics and dialogue, into a silly world that cannot be excused by labeling it "Romantic Poetry". I commiserate with an otherwise capable cast who are made to say and do such inadequacies.

I eagerly look for to Shanley's return to his former world of meaningful, provocative, and thoughtful drama.