Real Estate is an engaging and comical look at the process of picking up the pieces and moving on. This comic four-hander about a small town real estate agent was inspired by playwright, Allana Harkin’s, time in Hudson, Quebec.
Emma, a first-time real estate saleswoman, Joel, a writer who can't seem to write anymore, Estelle, his long-suffering, soon-to-be ex, and Ted, a beauty product entrepreneur explore love and laughs in this offbeat and hilarious romantic comedy.
Emma: Often the greatest achievements in life are born out of a state of ultimate lows and sheer panic.
Joel: I feel like I’m getting a heart palpitation.
Emma: That’s why I see every house as a treasure trove. “A buried treasure hidden under hideous furniture and bad lighting.”
By Allana Harkin
Directed by Alison DarcyDu 1er novembre au 4 décembre 2005
Billetterie - Box ofice : 288-3161
review by Geneviève Germain
When opposites meet
What could bring together a writer that has lost his inspiration, that lives in his pyjamas and spends tons of his time looking for things he has lost, and a career oriented, perky and exuberant real estate agent? A house to sale, of course. However, it’s not just any house they are about to put on the selling market: it is a house that was built by Joel’s father for his beloved wife. It holds a history and it is full of memories that make it harder to move on.
This heartfelt comedy is the first play written by Canadian actress Allana Harkin, who mentions that she was inspired by the time she has spent in the nearby town of Hudson. Once again exploring the theme of Montreal inspired stories, Centaur theatre brings us, with Real Estate, a modern play that explores relationships and its different twists and outcomes.
Colorful characters are brought together as the story unfolds. Jennifer Wynne Webber as Emma Bard, the real estate agent, is truly hilarious as she literally bursts into Joel Hopper’s life (Bruce Dinsmore), creating a great contrast with the intellectual, down-to-earth, somewhat solitary and really unorganized writer. She startles him with ideas such as bringing a little « Feng Shui » into his home and purifying the air of any bad vibes by burning sauge herbs. Taking Joel’s home into her hands to make it more attractive, she must also face Joel’s own difficulties to let go of his father’s home.
On top of all this, Estelle Hopper (Cary Lawrence), Joel’s soon to be ex-wife, makes this writer’s life even more complicated by asking him to sign divorce papers, as he feels everything is falling apart around him. Tagging along is Estelle’s new boyfriend (Paul Hopkins), a beauty products businessman that even carries a « guy purse » around, offering numerous amusing interactions as he adds to Joel’s bewilderment by, for example, offering a foot massage to soothe his headache.
This talented cast, under Alison Darcy’s effective direction, delivers an enjoyable performance that runs smoothly but that is also highlighted my many humoristic moments. The set really reminds us of commonly known grand parents’ or parents’ home, as it is filled with picture frames, wall papered walls and wooden furniture. We can almost feel the coziness of the place.
Real Estate is a light but delightful play that is very promising for Allana Harkins new playwriting career.
07/11/2005