DEATH AND THE MAIDEN Review

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Annie Fitzpatrick as Paulina Salas. Photo by Mikki Schaffner.

DEATH AND THE MAIDEN presented by Diogenes Theatre Company through May 2. Click here for more information on the production. I attended the opening performance.

I’ll give you four excellent reasons to see this show: Annie Fitzpatrick, Michael G. Bath, Giles Davies & Lindsey Augusta Mercer.

Annie Fitzpatrick as Paulina Salas & Michael G. Bath as Gerardo Escobar. Photo by Mikki Schaffner.

Paulina Salas begins the show as an emotionally-damaged shrinking violet. Fitzpatrick does excellent work in transforming Paulina into an emotionally-damaged women driven to confront and overcome the abuse she has experienced. Perhaps with a small side of crazy. 🙂

Giles Davies as Roberto Miranda. Photo by Mikki Schaffner.

As Paulina’s rising politico husband Gerardo, Bath strikes a great balance as put-upon husband, caregiver and negotiator. The scene between the couple, where the events of 15 years ago are finally addressed, is emotionally charged.

I am always excited to see Giles Davies return to the Cincinnati stage. And for me, rare are the times I get to see him in a contemporary role. As Roberto, the victim of Paulina’s, umm…ire, Davies excels in projecting an innocent man, while still having audience members question Roberto’s truthfulness. The physical demands of the role are well-met as well.

Annie Fitzpatrick as Paulina Salas & Giles Davies as Roberto Miranda. Photo by Mikki Schaffner.

The staging by director Lindsey Augusta Mercer is simple, yet effective. Mercer has a talent for bringing out dynamic and exciting performances from her actors. This show, combined with her work at New Edgecliff Theatre and Queen City Queer Theatre Collective has, for me, made the young director one to watch.

Annie Fitzpatrick as Paulina Salas & Michael G. Bath as Gerardo Escobar. Photo by Mikki Schaffner.

The ocean sounds and blowing fabric nicely establish the locale. The lighting design by Richard Riley Noble works extremely well with Sarah Beth Hall’s scenic design. Great work by sound designer Doug Borntrager, prop master Tenley Pitonzo and stage manager Zavarie Z. Irons.

Overall, an excellent, intense, gripping drama that is a highlight of the season.

Please note that after this weekend, there are no performances the week of April 20. DATM returns to the stage April 29-May 2 for it’s second and final week of performances.

My rating: 4.75 out of 5

I would enjoy hearing what you think about the show or my review. All I ask is that you express your opinion without attacking someone else’s opinion. You can post your comments below.