Evening Eucalyptus, a Play by Mahonri Stewart reviewed by Marilyn Brown for AML

“Evening Eucalyptus,” a Play by Mahonri Stewart reviewed by Marilyn Brown for AML

“Evening Eucalyptus,” Stewart’s “love letter” to Australia, is based on the history and literature of his experiences living there as a child and learning of the supernatural beliefs of the Aborigines about courage, death and time. Revealing the connections between early man and the present, the story rings a bit like something our Western citizens might write about the beliefs of the Native American culture. The plot presents a visit to the past that includes basic synergy and its haunting influences in our lives.

The love story was beautifully performed by Anna Hargadon and David Lasseter, both supported by an energetic cast, including a convincing aborigine played by Robert Burch, who represented a believer in the materialization of mystic influences.

The production at the old downtown Provo Library, now the Echo Theater, was adequate, but not perfect. As usual, probably “more money” would have helped. Alternate focus with lighting could have consolidated the many small scenes into larger pieces, making a more seamless experience for the viewer. I also felt the actors morphing so garishly into “spirits” spoiled my view of their “realistic” roles. If it was literally important, I would like to have seen more subtle costuming. However, I was touched by the excellent writing and the introduction to the Aborigine culture. Mahonri is a masterful writer (as we all know) and it is always a pleasure to grapple intellectually with what his clever mind produces time after time.