Family dynamics on stage often lean toward the dysfunctional, but Joe DiPietro finds a sweet spot of love, caring and humor in “Over the River and Through the Woods,” which returns to Florida Studio Theatre after a memorable and well-loved production 15 years ago.
From left, Marina Re, Eric Hoffmann, Caley Milliken and Matthew DeCapua in a scene from Florida Studio Theatre's production of "Over the River and Through the Woods." MATTHEW HOLLER PHOTO/PROVIDED BY FST
It’s the story of 29-year-old Nick Cristano, who has spent every Sunday evening getting stuffed at big and loud family dinners with his four Italian grandparents in Hoboken, N.J. They fuss and dote over him while worrying that he’s working too hard, not yet married and not eating enough.
When he’s around, all is wonderful, which is why it’s so hard for them to understand why he would consider moving to Seattle in a few weeks to take a promotion.
The ties that bind (and chafe)
“Tengo famiglia” they all say proudly, while pounding their fists over their hearts. What more do you need than family (besides an overly hearty meal)? So, they set out, with the best intentions, to give him a reason to stay, by trying to fix him up with a friend’s niece, Caitlin O’Hare (played with some strength and sweetness by Caley Milliken), who never got to enjoy such connections with her own grandparents.
Andy Prosky and Marina Re play one set of loving grandparents in "Over the River and Through the Woods" at Florida Studio Theatre. MATTHEW HOLLER PHOTO/PROVIDED BY FST
Told with healthy servings of schmaltz, pasta and connolis, the story conveys an engaging push and pull, sometimes in an over-the-top style in this boisterous production staged by Kate Alexander. The grandparents may not be book smart, but they’re wise, and as much as they frustrate Nick, he really doesn’t want to leave them, but how can he turn down the professional opportunity and see where this adventure takes him?
Though the four grandparents look much younger than characters who must be pushing 80, they all convey the necessary warmth in different ways, from the cantankerous exterior of Frank played by Eric Hoffman, to the more adventurous Emma played by Marina Re. As Aida, Rita Rehn spends much of her time running to and from the kitchen to whip up another meal, and Andy Prosky as Nunzio reveals a fortitude in dealing with various crises. Though some lines sound rehearsed, they all seem like a real family.
Though he may shout a bit more than necessary, the charming Matthew DeCapua plays Nick as a man trying to figure out himself and his life and find a way to follow his dreams and not lose the grounded home base he enjoys. And you can really believe it’s home in Jeff Dean’s detailed and well-lived-in set, which is nicely matched by Yuri Caltaldo’s costumes and highlighted in Rob Perry’s lighting.
Rita Rehn, left, as Aida Gianelli comforts her grandson played by Matthew DeCapua in Joe DiPietro's familly comedy "Over the River and Through the Woods" at Florida Studio Theatre. MATTHEW HOLLER PHOTO/PROVIDED BY FST
There’s a genuine, heartfelt debate at the heart of the play, a desire for our offspring to pursue their goals and live their lives, while wanting them to do it closer to home. It’s so normal, relatable and funny.
THEATER REVIEW
OVER THE RIVER AND THROUGH THE WOODS
By Joe DiPietro. Directed by Kate Alexander. Reviewed July 24, Florida Studio Theatre Gompertz Theatre, 1247 First St., Sarasota. Through Aug. 9. 366-9000; floridastudiotheatre.org
