Top notch production

MORE than 60 years since its original opening on Broadway, director Kenneth Kelleher presents a strong, fresh, moving production of “The Death of a Salesman” with a superb cast. He wrings every bit of emotion from his actors, impacting the audience by making them feel like they’re part of playwright Arthur Miller’s story.
Randall King, artistic director for The Stage in San Jose, has taken other bombastic role of 66-year-old Willy Loman, who desperately needs to hold onto his job to make ends meet. In his self-disillusionment and stubbornness, he continuously locks horns with his older son Biff (a dynamic Danny Jones.)
Lucinda Hitchcock Cone plays his patient and loving wife Linda who loyally supports him in his dreams and puts up with his moods. Her performance comes across with an acceptance and dedication intensely felt.
Jeffrey Brian Adams, Kevin Blackton, Michael Bellino Joey, Pisacane, Brandon Leland, Will Springhorn Jr., Courtney Hatcher, Ashley Garlick and Adrienne Herro add first-rate talent to this fine cast.
Given the simplicity and size of the theatre, sound, lighting and the set are imaginative and well detailed. “The Death Of A Salesman” almost hits too close to home with this country’s economy as it is today, but this production is solidly well done.
Catch “The Death of a Salesman” through April 26 at The Stage, 490 S. First St., San Jose. Tickets are $20-$65. For reservations and information, call 408-283-7142 or go to www.thestage.org.
Camille Bounds is the theatre and arts columnist for the Morgan Hill Times and the Gilroy Dispatch.