✭✭✭✭✩

by David S. Craig, directed by Richard Greenblatt

Roseneath Theatre, Lorraine Kimsa Theatre for Young People, Toronto

February 5-24, 2007

David S. Craig’s play Danny, King of the Basement makes a welcome return to Toronto after its hit debut here in 2001.  The play has been in production somewhere in the world ever since.  Unlike many plays even for adults, Craig does not preach.  Instead he creates a story that is in itself vivid, relevant and thought-provoking.

Danny Carter (Jordan Pettle) and his frequently unemployed mother Louise (Jacklyn Francis) have moved eight times in the past two years.  Danny’s imagination, however, reshapes this as a kind of wild adventure where he is the “Game Master” in charge of his destiny.  In his newest neighbourhood his charisma helps bring together sparring neighbours Angelo (Cliff Saunders) and stuck-up Penelope (Yanna McIntosh), who both have to cope with difficult parents.  It’s amazing how in only one hour, Craig manages to involve so many themes--not just homelessness and poverty, but children who have to act as parents to their parents, and play acting both as an outlet for emotion and as a disguise.

The performances of the entire cast are first rate.  Andjelija Djuric’s colourful design is delightful.  From boisterous comedy to the most serious moments, director Richard Greenblatt gets every note right.  The ending seems to come too soon, but that may be because the show has been so enjoyable.         

©Christopher Hoile

Note: A version of this review appeared in Eye Weekly 2007-02-15.

Photo: Jordan Pettle and Jacklyn Francis.