Theater Review: Knoxville

SARASOTA – Just over three years ago, the Asolo Repertory Theatre announced that it would host the world premiere of Knoxville, the latest production by Tony-Award-winning playwright/director Frank Galati. Last week, the show, which Galati himself directs, finally opened in the Mertz Theatre at the FSU Center for the Performing Arts.

For Knoxville, Galati has again teamed up with musical composer Stephen Flaherty and lyricist Lynn Ahrens to reform the team that had previously brought us Ragtime. The musical is based on the autobiographical novel A Death in the Family by James Agee, and, in part, on the play All the Way Home by Tad Mosel

James Danieley gives a superb performance as Author/James Agee. Daniely combines the memories of his youth, adulthood, and his present role as a novelist.

The Follets family is comprised of Jay, played by Paul Alexander, a loving father and husband who enjoys his whiskey; Mary Follet, a proper and religious wife played by Hannah Elless; and the young Rufus, played by Jack Casey. Ellen Harvey plays the direct and caring Aunt Hannah. Nathan Salstone is the sweet brother to Mary.

Jay has a brother and sister-in-law with a strained relationship. Joel Waggoner plays Ralph, the son that lives by the parents and takes on the assistance that goes on with elderly parents. Ralph also has a problem with the bottle. Jay and Ralph’s musical number,Ralph's Here, is very identifiable. Ralph's wife is played by Sarah Aili who gives one of the best musical numbers of the production, Black Dress.

Dwelvan David has two roles, one as the doctor, the other as the Ferryman. David, Alexander, and Danieley give the best musical number filled with darkness and energy with The Ferryman and Lunchroom of the Night. Some of the actors are also musicians within the production and are to be commended for their duel talents.

The musicians and lighting team encompassed the show splendidly. When death presents itself too early in one's life, coming of age can be hampered. If that person is surrounded by guidance, one can turn into a timeless novelist that can share their beacon of life just like a butterfly and Knoxville captures the essence of the transformation in all of its glory.

Knoxville runs through May 11. Click here for ticket information.