"Native Gardens" @PCS

The most striking thing about "Native Gardens" is the perfection of its casting. The neighbors actually look like the types of people they are meant to represent. This is particularly true of Anne-Marie Cussion . She is the very embodiment of the weathered, tough-as-nails woman who fought her way up.

Most of the script is amusing. Although, it does underline its "we're not just talking about plants" topicality a little hard at times. I assure you that you'll get its drift. All in all, "Native Gardens"is a comedy about heavy themes, but also manages to end on a light note. Much like the hobby at its center, it is a pleasant way to while-away an evening.

"The Breath of Life" @ PCS

First things first, I'd watch Gretchen Corbett read the phonebook. Unfortunately, much of David Hare's script made me wonder if that is what I was watching. There is a shocking lack of tension in this play. One of the reasons is that the script drops countless hints that the unseen man at the center of the show is someone of importance. I was waiting for a big-reveal that never came. That Julia Brothers is forced to be "on-book" due to the unexpected departure of Sharonee McLean, doesn't help matters, Add in the odd angles of the set yielding poor sightlines, and I must regretfully suggest you skip this one.

"The Revolutionists" @ Artists Rep

The most intriguing aspect of  "The Revolutionists" is its deft juggling of tones. From the wrenchingly sad to the silly. It even manages to finesse the bumpiness of the play-within a play. This is mostly accomplished by effective self-referential humor . I Joellen Sweeney, as assassin Charlotte Corday. Her murderous exuberance is hilarious. There are also effective little theatrical-touches I enjoyed, such as the use of red-ribbons to signify death by guillotine. It is strange play, but if you like your violent European History served with a side of laughs, this is your show.