The Glass Menagerie

In this semi-autobiographical play the domineering matriarch of the Wingfield family tries to find a "gentleman caller" for her fragile daughter. This is a "memory play"; the narrator/character, Tom, continually shifts from narration to his "in scene" character. This technique makes the drama a most effective selection for audio. The cast is extraordinary throughout, with each performer deftly handling the most subtle nuances of Williams's poetic realism. Jessica Tandy's portrayal of Amanda deserves special kudos. The production and direction of the performance are equally engaging. Through the use of sound effects and evocative music, the listener is swept into the troubled, poignant world of these haunting characters. S.L.D. (c)AudioFile, Portland, Maine

A stellar cast performs Tennessee Williams's first major play, produced here by L.A. Theatre Works. Calista Flockhart has the difficult role of the painfully shy Laura Wingfield, while Julie Harris is her overbearing and talkative mother, Amanda. John Goodman soberly narrates the painful story, which is based on Laura's brother Tom's memories of his family's struggles to stay afloat and hopeful in the last years of the Depression. The audio play offers listeners the immediacy of live theater; however, sounds other than voices, such as doors closing and chairs scraping, break the intensity of the dialogue. Still, the power of the iconic work shines through, thanks to this professional ensemble of actors. L.W.S. © AudioFile 2025, Portland, Maine