Little Bear Ridge Road
One could assume that Little Bear Ridge Road is a must-see production that has captivated audiences with its compelling storyline and exceptional performances, prompting the production to be extended to meet the overwhelming demand; however, I wouldn't jump the gun just yet. Sure, it has Tony and Emmy Award-winning ensemble member Laurie Metcalf (The Conners, Three Tall Women – Tony Award) coming back home to Steppenwolf and providing an exceptional performance, with John Drea and Micah Stock making their Steppenwolf debut and Meighan Gerachis. Still, I may be the only one who sees this as just another version of the familiar storyline about a dysfunctional family, similar to what many Americans have seen in the TV show "The Conners." The resemblance between Little Bear Ridge Road and specific plotlines from The Conners is intriguing. There are some common themes and plot points, such as drug use, LGBTQ+ identity, and dealing with severe illnesses within the family. These parallels might resonate with audiences familiar with The Conners and its characters. Here are a few similarities. Ethan's father was on drugs, similar to Roseanne's character being killed off through an accidental opioid overdose. The Conners also had a 2019 episode in which Darlene's 12-year-old son Mark Healey II (Ames McNamara) comes out as gay. And lastly, episode 316 in The Conners was about Molly's mother having cancer that she refused to reveal. The recurring themes in these storylines have been compelling in television, movies, and plays for a long time, but more profound narratives have been overlooked in this play. For example, it's worth exploring why Sarah feared associating with others, feeling more comfortable as a hermit, and why she didn't go to Ethan when he needed her as a child. More in-depth dialogue about the reasons behind Ethan's mother leaving when he was a child — and exploring how his strained family relationships may impact his ability to communicate with others. A more compelling storyline could have focused on resolving these dysfunctional family issues between the last two Fernsbys on earth instead of the questionable ending of what happened to Ethan and Sarah as if there would be a sequel.
There is a scene where Ethan, Sarah, and James are watching a television series, and Ethan and Sarah complain that it was the worst ending ever because it concluded with a Yes or No ending on whether or not the people were aliens. We learn about these two rural Idaho estranged members living in the outer limits of society coming back together again to sell the home of Ethan's father and resolve the financial mess he left. The write-up says they now face an uncomfortable and universal question: how do we deal with others? It's an interesting question. However, we never really find out; it only provides a yes or no answer. For example, it highlights the choices made by the characters, such as Ethan deciding whether to move out and Sarah entrusting Ethan with her medical care. However, it also highlights the unresolved family dynamics and lingering isolation within the family unit. We are left with the same scenario where two people are still secluded and are not communicating with the last member of their family. The simplistic staging, with one reclining sofa, adds to the dynamics of isolation.
Little Bear Ridge Road grips you with its enduring and empathetic storyline. Yet, despite Metcalf's brilliant performance, Stock and Drea had too many lackluster scenes that needed to be more robust to fully bring their characters to life. The most important aspect for me is whether it still connects with the audience, and the answer is a resounding yes. This narrative has a timeless quality that continues to deeply affect its audience in an emotionally powerful manner, ensuring that it will continue to be successful. It has that classic narrative that can eternally touch your soul. Still, it could benefit from more vigorous dialogue from other actors.
⭐⭐⭐
Steppenwolf Theatre Company Presents
Little Bear Ridge Road
By Samuel D. Hunter
Directed by Joe Mantello
Extended Through August 4, 2024
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