Theater Review, The Birmingham News November 7, 2000, p. 2a.

Complex Irish drama capably done by BFT

If you leave the Beauty Queen of Leenane wondering whether you should laugh, cry, or toss your Irish biscuits, that doesn't mean you just didn't "get it." Confusion arises naturally from the ironies and complexities that mark this compelling play.

The first play by Martin McDonagh, which won four Tony Awards when it debuted on Broadway in 1996, Beauty Queen spins a dark and twisted tale of a mother and daughter caught in each other's webs of deceit. While the Birmingham Festival Theatre production is long on character and dialogue, the show is plot-driven and suspenseful enough to keep even the sleepiest audience member gripping the seat.

The play is distinctly Irish in flavor but the story could as easily have been the tale of a mother and daughter from Selma or Oneonta.

At its core, the conflict pits a bitter 20-year-old woman against her cold, demanding mother. The two are caught in the throes of resentment and rebellion, scarred by years of spite and acrimony.

Mag, the mother, is played with finesse by Regina Harbour, who gives dimension and life to what could have been a one-dimensional hag. Harbour is well matched with Melissa Cox as daughter Maureen, who gave a stellar performance in a role that demands not only skill and stamina but also style.

In smaller roles, Michael Leslie shines as Maureen's would-be suitor. The cast's least experienced actor, Patrick Sizemore, has a more difficult time as the suitor's younger brother. Sizemore's character seems to be little more than the proverbial messenger, but his role is pivotal, and his actions and motivations need to be painstakingly played out.

All of the cast members bravely, and for the most part successfully, tackle a difficult Irish brogue. The use of the accents is commendable, but at times lines were lost on this reviewer's Southern ears.

Often billed as a dark comedy, Queen is more dark than comic, more provocative than pleasant. But BFT' capable production provides a treat to any serious theatergoer.