True Love
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Williamson, Thomlinson
Photo by Dan Holm
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By Ben Miles
Cole Porter's "True Love" was immortalized when a duet comprised of none other than Bing Crosby and Grace Kelly sang it on film in 1956's High Society. The screenplay for that movie was written by John Patrick Goggin, a multi-award-winning dramatist of both stage and screen. Now playwright Walter Williamson has taken the title, True Love, and attached it to a biographical conceit. It is the story of Goggin's (known as Pat) four decades' relationship with Bill Myers (heir to the Myers-rum family fortune).
Robert S. Telford directs with a focus that maximizes the script's inherent emotionality, revealing the dynamics of a love as unlikely--Myers and Goggin didn't in any way seem a natural match--as it was unacceptable, at least in their day. And yet, the relationship endured. Indeed, as Williamson's script suggests, the wealthy and capable Bill allowed the artistic and narcissistic Pat to show-up in life.
The 90-minute drama (not including a 15-minute intermission) is replete with unexpected humor, engrossing conflict, and juicy show-biz gossip (including tid-bits about Milton Berle, Marlon Brando, and Lucille Ball's longtime accomplice, Vivian Vance).
As Bill, Larry Thomlinson brings stature and dignity to a role that could be easily diminished if left in the care of a lesser craftsman. Technically and emotionally Thomlinson hits each of this character's notes with eloquent aplomb and authenticity.
The writer, Williamson, plays Pat with a temperament that is comical, credible, and ultimately tragic. We are compelled to admire Pat's gifts as a chronicler of the human experience. At the same time, we are dismayed by his essential solipsism and rank immaturity.
Goggin once said of writing, "I tell what's true, even if I don't always tell what really happened." In a broad fashion, "True Love" gets the story straight (so to speak), and it feels genuine.
True Love continues Thursday-Saturday at 8 p.m. Sunday performances are at 7 p.m.--through October 12. This world premiere production is located at the Dorie Theatre Complex, 6476 Santa Monica Boulevard, Hollywood. For reservations, dial (323) 960 - 1033. For online ticketing, visit www.Plays411.com/truelove.
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