[NEohioPAL]NBerko review: CUSTODY OF THE EYES (CPH)

[Roy Berko]

CPH’s ‘CUSTODY OF THE EYES’ is interesting, but not
compelling

Roy Berko

(Member, American Theatre Critics Association)

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The title of Anthony Giardina’s play, ‘CUSTODY OF THE
EYES’  is based on the concept that Priests and others
who are supposed to be thinking moral thoughts are
taught that ”you do not look in the eyes of what may
tempt you.” 

A recent discussion on a Catholic forum website
centered on, “How is one to keep custody of the eyes"?
 Does it depend on your intentions?  If one's thoughts
are sexual in nature, surely one should avert his
eyes.  But what if one is merely admiring?   Or is it
good to admire and thank God for such beauty?”  A
responder stated, “Here is a simple rule: look once
and you’re okay, look twice and you are in danger of
sin.” 

A play of temptation, ‘CUSTODY OF THE EYES’ centers on
the disappearance of  a parish priest from a remote
island off the coast of Maine.   What made him vanish?
 What is the connection between his disappearance and
his relationship with a woman and her ill son?  Was
the vanishing stimulated by his need to search for a
view of the world through a different set of eyes than
those focused by church dictates?  

A Bishop and another priest come to the island to
investigate the disappearance.  These men, who have
histories in which their eyes also searched and found
what they shouldn’t, are forced to dig beyond the
disappearance and into their own lives.

‘CUSTODY OF THE EYES’ examines multi-issues including
that “Priests were not meant to feel,” the evolving
public awareness of homosexuality within the church,
the covering up of discretions, the requirement of
celibacy for priests, and the dwindling number of
“loyal believers.”  

The script is interesting, but not intriguing.  It is
too formulaic in places, but does make one think.  
The writing creates subtle conflict, rather than
strong emotional highs and lows.  Some of the language
lacks verbal flow, creating static moments.  It does
not compare in intensity to the present smash Broadway
hit, ‘DOUBT’ which also investigates church issues.

The CPH production, which is very slowly paced by
director Michael Butler, features some excellent
acting.  Joseph Collins (Father LeBlanc) plays the
tortured young priest with clarity.  The character’s
conflict between strict morality, uptight obedience,
and his underlying understanding of the need for human
emotional reactions, is nicely etched.  

Kenneth Tigar, as an older priest who gave up his
parish because of his inability to act correctly
according to the rules of the custody of the eyes, is
excellent as the tortured soul.  His long monologue,
which reveals his trespasses, was compelling.   

Paula Duesing is right on target as the islander who
volunteers at the local church.   J. R. Horne properly
underplays the role of the Bishop.

On the other hand, Jan Leslie Harding gives a surface
level performance as the woman who causes LeBlanc to
have trouble in averting his eyes.    She feigns
emotions, doesn’t experience them.  Mark Mayo, in a
dual role, is also not completely convincing in his
characterizations.  It often sounds like he is
reciting words, not creating the meanings of the
words.

Russell Parkman’s design does little to create the
proper setting.  Though the wooden walls, which are
referred to in the script, are necessary, their
sliding up and down stage did little to help imagery. 
Because the set does not fill up the entire stage,
those sitting stage right were regularly distracted by
viewing actors and stage hands in the wings.

CAPSULE JUDGEMENT:  ‘CUSTODY OF THE EYES’ is a play
worth seeing as it investigates concepts that are not
commonly discussed within or outside of the Church. 
One could have hoped, however, that the issues had
been more vividly textured.

‘CUSTODY OF THE EYES’ continues at CPH through May 21.
 For tickets call 216-795 7000 or go on-line to
www.clevelandplayhouse.com.

Cleveland Play House’s 2006-2007 season will include: 
‘RABBIT HOLE,’ ‘MY FAIR LADY,’ ‘RFK,’ ‘OF MICE AND
MEN,’ ‘CUTTIN’ UP,’ ‘THE CLEAN HOUSE,’ ‘ELLA,’ 
‘CHRISTMAS STORY’ and ‘LINCOLESQUE.’


Roy Berko's web page can be found at www.royberko.info.  His theatre and dance reviews appear on NeOHIOpal, an on-line source.   To subscribe to this free service via the World Wide Web, visit http://lists.fredsternfeld.com/mailman/listinfo/neohiopal.

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