REVIEW: Mamet's American Buffalo at the Vortex

By the "H" Man

I happened to view the Vortex's production of American Buffalo on Sat. the 20th. Here are some of my comments:
The music could have fit the show better. It seemed to be chosen at randum and was too mello. This American Buffalo not spanish Buffalo.
The set was too clean for a pawn shop. Needed to look dirtier.
As to the acting: The show started out a little slow and Teach's opening speech could have been more edgy and hateful sounding. John Wiley seemed a little too laid back in his portrayal as Donny the shop owner. The actor playing Bobby needed to have that junkie look and sound. It would have been more believable when Teach pushed him around. Timing was a little off at the very start but began to get better as the first act went on. This audience member missed seeing some snippets of anger in the first act between Teach and Donny. However, the second act definetly got more edgy and threatening.
Frank Melcori did a good job keeping his actors moving the play along. In general this audience member enjoyed the show and the performances which were solid.
American Buffalo runs for the next two weekends Fri. and Sat. at 8:00 and Sundays at 6:00 p.m. at the Vortex Theatre. For reservations, call 247-8600.