When most of us think of “Dog Day Afternoon” we think of the Warner Bros film by the same name and though this play written by Stephen Adly Guirgis is based on that, it is not exactly the same. In fact, it is quite different in terms of the approach. This production is jam-packed with humor, something that you don’t associate with the movie. For me, it actually works!
It was a joy to watch this production, where Guirgis has characters very vividly drawn and doing things quite over the top that had the audience completely engaged and entertained. You still got the story of Sonny and Sal trying to rob the bank in Brooklyn on a hot summer in 1972, when they get a lot more than what they bargained for. Everything goes wrong. The funny part is watching the characters collide, as the workers in the bank speak their truth to the bank robbers, especially head teller Colleen, who verbally lambasts Sonny for what he is putting them through.
It’s interesting to watch as these characters share the problems they are facing in their lives. The back-and-forth moments are priceless to witness. Sonny is a desperate man, who robs a bank to get money for a reason that was very taboo in 1972. This play shows how a bad idea can just spiral into catastrophe. Whether you know the story or not, the pleasure is in the experience.
This production features a stellar cast that includes Jon Bernthal as Sonny, who is perfection in the role. You will find yourself cheering for him, although you know he can’t win. Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Sal is very threatening and serious. Jessica Hecht as Colleen is a spitfire, feisty, courageous head teller. Her natural wit and confrontational skills are exquisite to behold. John Ortiz is delightful as Detective Fucco, who tries to negotiate with Sonny. Michael Kostroff is splendid as Butterman, the bank manager. Spencer Garrett as Sheldon, the FBI agent that handles negotiations in the end, is very cynical and direct when he deals with Sonny. Esteban Andres Cruz as Leon, Sonny’s husband, who was driven to a suicide attempt to get away from Sonny, is very candid about his true feelings and his fears of this man.
Playing at the August Wilson Theatre on West 52nd Street, this production has a stunning creative team that includes David Korms, scenic design; Brenda Abbandandolo, costume design; Isabella Byrd, lighting design; Cody Spencer, sound design; and Leah J. Loukas, hair and wig design. This production has fluid, outstanding direction by Rupert Goold. For tickets visit dogdayafternoon.com.