Here's the review we received in the Johnson County Sun Newspaper. Note -- the number at the end of the article should read 816-674-5601. AG

Cynicism, social drama, musical on area stages
BY: Russ Simmons, Theater Reviewer
Thursday, June 21, 2007 10:11 AM CDT

SPEED-THE-PLOW

A production of one of David Mamet's most cynical and observant plays marks the theatrical return of a homegrown actor who hasn't made a stage appearance in 30 years.

Jeff East, the local boy who became a star in the 1970s in movies such as “Tom Sawyer” and “Superman,” is currently appearing in the Down Every Street/Actor's Training Studio production of “Speed-the-Plow.”

With dozens of films and TV appearances under his belt, East now takes on the role of a self-centered, middle-aged movie studio executive in this dark and complex comedy. East plays Bobby Gould, a man undergoing a major crisis of conscience. Should he remain the merchant of mind-numbing, exploitative entertainment, or should he produce something meaningful?

His uncomfortable self-examination is brought on by the actions of two employees. One is an underling named Charlie (Scott Stackhouse) who has nabbed a “name” star for a sleazy prison movie and now wants producer credit. The other is his secretary Karen (Natalie Stackhouse) who tries to get Bobby to make a film adaptation of an artsy, esoteric novel with little box office potential.

Although it takes the cast members a few minutes to get comfortable with the rhythm of Mamet's often profane rat-a-tat dialogue, they each create credible, clearly defined characters. East's personal experiences with studio honchos no doubt gave him some insight into Bobby's psyche.

Director Andy Garrison keeps the pace sharp and the focus on Mamet's acrid vision that uses humor to cope with a dark worldview.

“Speed-the-Plow” is a biting and funny commentary on contemporary morality.

“Speed-the-Plow” runs through June 30 at the Blackbox Theatre at the Carlsen Center of Johnson County Community College, 12345 College Blvd, Overland Park. For information, call (816) 647-5601.