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These ‘Angry Men’ get real – Metro US

These ‘Angry Men’ get real

BroadHollow Theatre Company’s production of Reginald Rose’s “Twelve Angry Men,” directed by Marian Waller, proves that compelling drama is timeless, no matter how old the material is.

Originally written in 1954 as a teleplay, Rose later adapted the script, about 12 jurors deliberating the fate of a teenager charged with murder, for both the screen and stage. It made its Broadway debut in 2008, courtesy of the Roundabout Theatre Company.

One of the key aspects of a good production is the casting. Waller has assembled a spitfire company. The result is a briskly paced, thoroughly exciting 90 minutes. Any dust the script may have gathered is completely invisible.

Though “Twelve Angry Men” is an ensemble piece, the two catalysts are Juror #8 — the lone hold-out who won’t vote guilty — and Juror #3, the angry, haunted man who is determined to send the teen to jail. In these pivotal roles, James Lingner (alternating with his brother Bob for some performances) and Frank DiSpigno deliver sensitive, well-thought performances that are thoroughly convincing in every way.