Christopher Durang’s "Beyond Therapy" (1981) is a time capsule of the psychobabble associated with theories of self-motivation and self-actualization popular during the 1970s and ’80s. The production at The Desert Rose Playhouse, Yannig Morin’s first directorial undertaking, is fast paced and pleasantly wacky.
 

Dr. Phil and his “How’s that workin’ for you?” approach to pop psychology may use different terms, but individual angst has not changed much in the last thirty years. And people are still searching for relationships. Durang’s screwball play is a series of blackout skits that begins in the restaurant called “The Restaurant” where Bruce and Prudence first meet. She has responded to his personals ad, and both are attempting to apply the advice of their psychotherapists. She is insecure and urged by her therapist to stop looking for perfection. He is a proclaimed bisexual in a yearlong relationship with Bob; his therapist has urged him to open himself emotionally and to take risks. When he demonstrates his sensitivity by weeping, she responds: “I don’t think men should cry unless something falls on them.” To judge by the drinks they toss in each other’s faces, the date doesn’t go well, but they are soon back together.

We next meet the therapists. Prudence sees Stuart who seduced her on her second visit and brags about his sexual prowess despite her evidence to the contrary. Bruce depends on Charlotte who sees herself as the doctor in “Equus” who champions passionate acting out against bland conformity. She also confuses words (“porpoise” for “patient,” “thermidor” for “therapy,” “dirigible” for “secretary”) and often expresses emotions through her Snoopy hand puppet.

Ruben Muller delivers Stuart’s outrageous lines effectively, but he does not have much dimension in the role. Andie Rigler does more with the part of Charlotte. She gets progressively zanier as the play advances. Clearly these counselors need counseling. By comparison, the patients are rather normal. Benjamin Liberman displays a controlled intensity as Bruce. His performance reminds me of the young Gene Wilder in its emotional extremes and vulnerability. Evan Gardey uses apt facial expressions to convey Bob’s consternation. Lori Uebelhart is an appealing Prudence. She, too, projects vulnerability despite her prejudices and pronouncements. Notwithstanding the play’s farcical nature, I found myself rooting for her happiness. “

Beyond Therapy” is a funny treatment of some serious issues.

If You Go

WHAT: “Beyond Therapy” by Christopher Durang

WHEN: Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 4 p.m. through April 20

WHERE: The Desert Rose Playhouse, 6921-E Montgomery NE

HOW MUCH: $12. Call 881-0503 for ticket information

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