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By KAREN SHADE World Scene Writer
09/22/2005

'Somewhere in Between' has strong characters, likeable actors
It's always nice to discover something about yourself that you never knew existed.

In "Somewhere in Between," Jasper spends most of his time on stage apologizing for mishaps beyond his control, following bad advice and trying to be anything but himself.

But as he learns, no one is exactly as he appears in this comedy from Craig Pospisil.

Set in New York City, "Somewhere in Between," resuming its run at Heller Theatre on Thursday, follows Jasper through a weekend of happenings that ultimately lead him to the understanding that he isn't such a bad guy after all.

Todd Hanlin, who plays Jasper, possesses a lyrical, animated voice capable of carrying a long opening monologue in the dark.

The play, written by Craig Pospisil, is presented as a series of scenes.

Nate Gavin (left), Todd Hanlin and Traci Conway star in Heller Theatre’s production of “Somewhere in Between.”

SHERRY BROWN / Tulsa World
"I love the dark," says this voice, the owner obviously more comfortable unseen. He is a hypochondriac milquetoast, but as grating as the hand wringing and cringing can become, Jasper, as played by Hanlin, is actually quite likable and often the only normal person on stage.

"Somewhere" often feels like a showcase for comedic talent. All the actors, except Hanlin, play multiple parts. Nate Gavin makes good on delivering the laughable effects of a five-minute breakdown after he and Jasper are trapped in an elevator.

Traci Conway takes an angry rant to hilarious heights, while Mary Forester sells the dream that is New York before making her best offer.

But Jamie Vannoy is excellent in flipside roles as Jasper's blissfully ignorant co-worker and as a homeless man who helps Jasper to open his eyes.

He points out to Jasper the fact that he always apologizes. He asks Jasper why he always feels guilty for the things he cannot help. And he reminds Jasper of things in life a person should truly be worried about.

The best part of watching "Somewhere in Between" was Ione Blocker as Holly, Jasper's love interest and (in his eyes) possible redeemer.

Blocker's natural ease in the role made her scenes interesting to watch, particularly a party scene in which she and Jasper cross paths for the second time.

Jasper's deep insecurities and Holly's grace make it difficult to really see how these two might come together, but then again, we don't know where that story leads.

The play doesn't leave a tidy ending or give more than these brief glimpses into the characters' lives. We don't know whether Holly will stick around, and we don't know how Jasper will fare in his newfound independence. He could just as easily flounder.

But "Somewhere in Between" does make for a comfortable evening of theater that just skirts the typical.

Karen Shade 581-8334
karen.shade@tulsaworld.com

review
‘SOMEWHERE IN BETWEEN’
When:
8 p.m. Thursday through Saturday
Where:
Heller Theatre, 5328 S. Wheeling Ave.
Admission:
Tickets are $8 for adults and $6 for students and seniors. For more information, call 746-5065.

This site sponsored by Heller Theatre Council.
To contact the webmaster e-mail alb74066@aol.com or Heller Theatre at Parktheater@ci.tulsa.ok.us

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