Neil Simon's "Rose's Dilemma" in Sierra Madre
Jackie Houchin
August 30, 2008
A love story that goes beyond the grave seems appropriate for Simon, as is the main character, Rose Steiner, a Pulitzer Prize winning novelist who has struggled with writer´s block ever since Walsh, the "love of her life" passed away.
But, although Walsh (Don Savage) is dead, he is not departed. Rose (Margaret McCarley) talks with him every night, and even makes love with him, much to the embarrassment of her personal assistant, Arlene, who has to "turn on the shower" to drown out their passion.
Soon after the play opens, it becomes clear that Rose´s nights of ardor are soon to end. It´s time for Walsh to move on to his "own crowd." His final act of love is to try to "provide for her" financially; a need that is becoming desperate, according to Arlene.
Here´s where Simon´s creativity shines forth, for Walsh is only a (very real) figment of Rose´s imagination. Every thought and speech of his, come from her own mind.
So is it Walsh who directs her to his unfinished novel, or her own mind that suddenly recalls where it is hidden? And is the name of a possible "ghost writer" she is to enlist to finish his book, her idea or his?
As the story plays out, that line becomes at once clear and muddy. And when Clancy (Norman Dostal), the down-on-his-luck, two-bit novelist cum ghost writer shows up, Rose and Walsh argue about whether to hire him. Only Arlene sees the way out of Rose´s dilemma.
A well written play with a bittersweet, yet satisfying finish, ROSE´S DILEMMA is Neil Simon at his gentlest. Even after loss, there is hope and a light at the end of the tunnel.
ROSE´S DILEMMA plays Friday and Saturday evenings at 8:00 PM and Sundays at 2:30 PM through September 27.
General Admission is $20; seniors (65+) and students $17; children under twelve $12. Call (626) 256-3809 for reservations.
Sierra Madre Playhouse is located at 87 Sierra Madre Blvd, Sierra Madre, 91024. Ample free parking is located behind the theater.
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