Chanukah with The Feldman Dynamic Conceived and Directed by Brian Feldman Studio 6107, Sanford, Florida Normal theater compresses time, emphasizes conflict and highlights resolution. "The Feldman Dynamic" does the opposite, setting the audience in a more voyeuristic situation. We peer through that 4th wall, seeing a family living a mundane life, brightened a bit by a traditional Jewish festival. Two Chanukah candles burn furiously as the family dawdles around, making latkes and eating Matzo Ball soup and jelly donuts. Father Edward does most of the cooking, with son and director Brian assisting, kvetching and burning his fingers making apple sauce. Sister Adrienne contemplates leaving her job at Lowe's to study more, and makes fun of the Christian literature she is inundated with, although she does adopt the minor goyish swear word "Geez" every now and again. Mother Marilyn reads the mail, and everyone drones on as the room warms up and fills with the smell of cooking. Is there tension? Not in a classic sense, although you do wonder where things are headed and will they ever get there. The conflict is low keyed, short lived and easily resolved, although the preshow announcement vaguely promises a small spat. As the Feldmans say their prayers and live their lives, they ignore the half dozen people sitting on risers in their cramped 2/2 apartment in a middle class complex out in the middle of Orlando suburban sprawl. When they end the show, and bow slightly, the effect is a bit unnerving. The audience goes from ignored observers to welcome friends - "Have a latke," "Have some wine," "How are you doing?" The 4th wall falls, but the smell of cooking oil penetrated it long ago. It's not a sermon, but a window into another family, and you half expect to be asked to take out the trash as you leave. Life, unscripted. For more information on The Feldman Dynamic, visit www.FeldmanDynamic.com Al Pergande Ink 19 December 8, 2004 Back