March 9, 2018
A Walk in the Woods
By: Lee Blessing
Directed by: Richard Baird
May 29th – June 23rd, 2019
EXTENDED through June 30th!
With world tensions escalating, Lee Blessing’s play, A WALK IN THE WOODS, is especially relevant today. In the midst of the Cold War, a U.S. and Soviet arms negotiators agree to meet informally. Their revealing and absorbing conversations, laced with humor, evolve through debate and discord, exploring unexpected and uncharted territory. For those yearning for a more enlightened world, this play gives us much to think about.
This production is a must-see for its acting, direction and brilliant banter.Director Richard Baird had to find two consummate actors to fulfil the two-hour piece, and in David Ellenstein and J. Todd Adams, he has found them. A compelling production.
- Jenni Prisk, Critic
The production is riveting. It makes you listen, laugh and think – a theatrical triple-whammy.
- Pat Launer, Center Stage Jazz 88
This production is brilliantly performed by David Ellenstein and J.Todd Adams, who work their magic on the audience that is masterfully and seamlessly directed by award-winning director/actor/producer Richard Baird. A triumphant production and a must-see show.
- Jack Lyons, Desert Local News
Ellenstein’s portrayal is earnest, understated and full of fun…Adams succeeds in ultimately conveying John Honeyman’s innate human frailties. Richard Baird directs the production with respect for the material and for the actors, while the Swiss woods set by Marty Burnett—is a serene spot for an audience to spend two hours. For a Cold War drama, ‘A Walk in the Woods’ has no shortage of warmth.
- David Coddon, San Diego City Beat
Solana Beach's North Coast Reps latest production of ‘A Walk in the Woods’ is a cleverly crafted, beautifully acted diplomatic cultural clash that will mesmerize audiences.
- TR Robertson, The Vista Press
Wrapped in the intrigue of international diplomacy, ‘A Walk in the Woods’ scores high marks as the actors fade into Andre and John. It feels alive. In-the-moment. Not a play but an observation of real life. A masterclass in acting.
- Elizabeth Youngman-Westphal, The Village News
Theater at its finest. Touching, funny, smart study of two fundamentally different men exploring the possibilities of peace and discovering their common humanity.
- Christine Meyers, Critic
The dialogue is sharp and masterfully crafted. Ellenstein is a charming and compelling Andrey. Adams is a competently boorish John who is a very good counterpart for the Soviet negotiator. The two play off each other in a very entertaining fashion! – A must see!” Lu Magdaleno
- Art Rocks 24/7
he success or failure of this two-hander lies almost entirely with the actors, of course. Both deliver, and then some. Don’t miss this production.
- Charlotte Collins, San Diego Reader
his important play is now in an exceptionally well acted, well crafted and well-directed production as staged by Richard Baird. A must see.
- Carol David, Theatre Critic
A Walk in the Woods’ is one of the best plays out there, and North Coast Rep brings all the humor and gravitas it requires. You’ll leave amused and thoughtful, and probably wanting to discuss the ideas with friends over coffee.
- Jean Lowerison, SDGLN