Customer Reviews

Park Your Car in Harvard Yard: Starring Judith Ivey and Jason Robards

5 star:		(1)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Jacob Brackish was once a demanding teacher of music appreciation and English literature. He is ill and (in his words) "as deaf as a haddock" when he unwittingly employs one of his former pupils as a live-in housekeeper. Although the timid Kathleen initially comes to the house seeking revenge for past failures, she may grow to appreciate both the great composers and the cranky old man in her care.

In following the ups and downs of the relationship over the course of a year, the play includes some laugh-out-loud lines and situations. Listening to her repeat her performance, it is obvious why Judith Ivey was nominated for a Tony Award in the role in 1992. After one particularly anguished set of screams, one wonders how she still has vocal cords. For his part, Jason Robards allows the audience several opportunities to feel great compassion for what could have been a grating curmudgeon.

In 10 years here I've heard this show repeated several times. Tonight I woke up, walked to the radio and turned it on -- There it was. PARK YOUR CAR IN HARVARD YARD. My unconscious has better sense than reviewers.
With Jason Robards and Judith Ivey, this play moves me to tears each time I hear it. Don't rely on reviews. Listen to the whole play. Buy it if it suits you.

This is a live recording very badly done. It is a strain to hear what the actors are saying and the audience laughter doesn't help. I am amazed that American audiences laugh so heartily at what is wry or wistful humour.

In the large box is ONE tape, costing $19.95.

I shall not be interested in LA Theatre Works' productions in the future.