Greg Maraio, Richard Snee, Jeremy Beazlie, Marissa Stewart and Paula Plum in"Grand Horizons" at Gloucester Stage Company.
" at Gloucester Stage Company . A 50-year marriage undergoes intense scrutiny when former librarian Nancy French announces over pot roast that she wants a divorce. Her husband, Bill French , nonchalantly agrees. The declaration is awkward as it comes moments after the two wordlessly work together to get dinner on the table.
In their cozy, independent-living apartment, complete with actual working appliances and a lovely wooden staircase courtesy of scenic designer Jenna McFarland Lord, the Frenchs’ long history comes out through confessions, sexts and more. There’s lots of tension in the show, but the overall delivery of the production feels sitcom-y. It is funny, though, but less tragic than it should be.
Another poignant moment exists between Ben and his friend Tommy , who sneak into Ben’s parents’ house late one night for a bit of fun. Tommy is randy and ready to go, but Ben is distracted by his parents’ plight. Mancinas-García is only onstage for a few minutes, but he’s worthy of more spotlight. Tommy has one of the healthiest responses to Ben’s constant fretting.