Directed by theater veteran Tim Longo of Montara, “True West,” critically described as “funny, naturalistic, terrifying, surrealistic,” is playwright Sam Shepard’s examination of duality in a role-reversal study of two brothers. Rife with multi-layered symbolism, it takes place on an expansive set surrounded by desert.
“It’s the purest of (Shepard’s) plays,” said Longo, a video-game development professional with a degree in theater. “Everything is boiled down to the bare essence. There’s a lot of subtlety ... I don’t do this lightly. I am a big Shepard fan and this theater has the resources to put this play on.”
 Tension simmers between Austin (Scott Solomon, left) and brother Lee (Peter K. Owen, right) in a visit from film producer Saul (Curtis Fleharty) in "True West." |
Long-simmering patterns emerge for the brothers, leading to disintegration, self-defeatism, absurdity and surrealism, in Shepard’s tight, engaging style.
Solomon, last seen locally in “The Secret Garden,” airs his vocal abilities in “True West.” “It’s exactly the kind of show I really enjoy: a small cast, intense stuff … The characters are fascinating to watch. Funny and disturbing.”
Owen, who works in geographic systems information management with San Mateo County, agrees. “Like all good writing, there’s lots and lots of layers, and that’s what actors love.”
“True West” welcomes back Coastal Rep regular Linda Henderson as the mother, after six years following the death of husband Chuck. “It’s been kind of bittersweet” since both frequently appeared together after having met in theater 47 years ago. “It’s the first play he hasn’t been there cheering me on. But he’s on the other side cheering me on.”
“True West” runs at 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 2 p.m., Sundays through April 18 at 1167 Main St. in Half Moon Bay. Tickets, at $15 to $25, are available at 569-3266 or at the door.
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