Everything's Fine--An Immensely Likable Storyteller in a Heartfelt One Person Show

      By Joseph Cervelli

I have to say that I was not that familiar with Douglas McGrath before reading in the Playbill he wrote the excellent "Checkers" several years ago and the book to the fine "Beautiful: The Carole King Musical" as well as the screenplay to the hilariously funny "Bullets Over Broadway."  I wish I had known about his adapting one of my favorite novels and films "The Age of Innocence" to the stage. Would have rushed to have seen it.

In the very pleasurable "Everything's Fine" a solo show at the DR2 Theater he acts as both writer and performer. He succeeds admirably on both levels. He is a wonderfully engaging storyteller and a kind of performer you would love to meet and ask more questions about his life. There is only one caveat in this show. While he tells loving tales of his growing up in Midland, Texas (a lot of laugh out loud humor in there) he spends a bit too much time discussing what occurs in the eighth grade. Now, in all fairness I will say I was never bored with his story about his both humorous and also troubling experience with his teacher from that grade. It does go on rather long, but I found myself laughing heartily and then at the edge of my seat thinking this is no longer a funny situation. Fortunately, nothing graphic was discussed because nothing like thankfullytook place (worth the spoiler alert to know that.) 

When McGrath discusses what he felt as a fourteen year old he captures the foibles, innocence and immaturity of a boy that age. He actually morphs into a younger version of himself. I loved his imaginary interaction with his best friend Eddie whom he mimics. Love to know what happened to Eddie. It is so believable looking for help from another fourteen year old and, of course, getting nothing but laughter. McGrath shows his kindness by forgiving his teacher despite making his life more overbearing thanany young man that age needed to contend with. Won't say anymore. You will see for yourself. 

What occurred with  his father after he met with an horrific accident as a child is told with humor and more than that warmth. There is one particular glowing moment when McGrath talks about his grandmother who read classic books to his father trying to recover from the tragedy. As the tears well up in the performer's eyes as they do when he explains how his father made one bad business decision leading to bankruptcy you might find yourself also feeling the same way. McGrath certainly has that persona. 

I can easily understand why the great actor John Lithgow would want to direct this show (first time in 45 years.) As I was watching McGrath and listening to him I could hear Lithgow's voice and even see his mannerisms. It is uncanny and probably why the result is so good. 

There is very little set (design by John Lee Beatty) except for a teacher's desk and chairs which doubles as a family dining area.

While I wished McGrath had discussed what it was like to work on both "Beautiful" and more especially "Bullets," I admired the sweetness encapsulated in his storytelling. The image of him as a child on his bike racing against blowing tumbleweed still remained in my mind well after the show. That exemplifies the enchantment of this show.

Photos: Jeremy Daniel

Tickets are available at the DR2 Theater 101 East 15th Street.