Vito D’Ambrosio channels Barrymore rather than plays him. The physical resemblance helps enormously, of course, but it is his embrace of the essence of the man that transforms him. He captures the comic qualities as well as the sadness and regret. To spend a hour or so in the presence of John Barrymore is an absolute gift and Vito D’Ambrosio is Barrymore. Totally and completely. Without affectation or irony, he is utterly spellbinding as this wonderful, tragic man. Larger than life and larger still in death. I cannot recommend Barrymore highly enough. Bryan Rasmussen directs this piece with his usual brilliance, coaxing perfection from an artist already well on his way to it. I would also like to make a special mention of Mitch Rosander, who plays the stage manager from the wings with utterly perfect comic timing… I absolutely loved this play!! Please don’t miss it in May!
BARRYMORE by William Luce, Honored to be selected as one of the BEST OF FEST, garnering an Encore performance on Saturday, May 10, 8pm. Please help us keep BARRYMORE alive and kicking, by making a Tax Deductible Contribution you can allow us to continue running this magnificent play, not only in LA, but around the country including Chicago, NYC, and beyond...!?! BARRYMORE depicts the last few months of the incredibly talented and successful icon of stage and screen, as he tries to recreate his first Broadway classical success as RICHARD III, giving us the chance to hear his life story, deeply personal and professional, and his dance with alcoholism.