“American, Italian” Opens And Stays So Good
Beginning with its so well acted and humorous, different takes on which song the great Bruce Springsteen ought to use as the concert”opener,” right through the end, “American, Italian,” directed by Mike Keller (playing at the Chain Theatre 312 West 36th Street as part of its Factory Series), is intense, humorous and so meaningful, hitting many key points, as though an effective pinball machine.
Written by Anthony P. Pennino, set in 1984-1985, an extended Italian American family/plus one girlfriend with six shown characters, all brought to the audience with excellent performances, goes through and asks questions, regarding some very important life issues.
Those actors are Dante Palminteri, as “Vin,” yes the son of Chazz and in an “apple not falling far,” excellent turn, and all excellent Donovan Counts as first cousin “Gio,” Isabella Bertoni as Vin’s sister “Gina,” Sara Romanello as his girlfriend “Lisa,” Paul Romanello as tough and worse, (thus good acting), father of Vin, “Vincenzo” and Marc Romero, given great concepts by Mr. Pennino, as more sensible Uncle to Vin, and father to Gio, “Frank.”
Family roles, demographics, generational characteristics and responsibilities, segments of great music, yes stereotypes, humor and pathos are all addressed very well, a part of this fine production.
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Andy B Sports 