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'Children of a Lesser God'

We are a nation of communicators however we don't all communicate in the same language. That very concept is at the heart of Barksdale's newest production, " Children of a Lesser God ." The play is being produced as part of the Acts of Faith series.

"Children of a Lesser God" introduces us to the world of the deaf and hard of hearing. It's a world where quiet is a constant companion; a world where music, children's voices and honking horns have no sound. It's a world foreign to the rest of the hearing population.

This silent universe is Sarah Norman's home. Sarah, who has been deaf since birth, and Orin Dennis, a childhood friend who is hard of hearing, are trying to exert their independence and carve out a future for themselves. When James Leeds, a new teacher comes into their school, Sarah finds herself falling in love. Even though Leeds has been working with the deaf, he realizes through his relationship with Sarah that he doesn't know as much about her world as he had thought. He and Sarah find it more and more difficult to communicate their experiences and frustrations.

In his role as James Leeds, Landon Nagel uses both verbal and American sign language to speak for himself and for Sarah. Nagel serves as the conduit between the audience and the action as well as between the characters and the storyline. Leeds pulls off this enormous task with finesse and strength. He wrestles with the character's frustrations in a way that is honest and unforced.

Erica Siegel , who plays Sarah, is in touch with the character's anger and resentment of the world around her. While she is proficient in the use of movement and gestures, she falters at times when it comes to connecting to the character emotionally. Unfortunately, the chemistry between Siegel and Nagel doesn't spark the passion that the characters profess.

Richard Gregory as Orin and Michelle Mary Schaefer as Lydia both deserve praise for their acting. Gregory skillfully demonstrates the character's lack of patience with anyone who doesn't join his crusade. Schaefer is delightful as the well-natured, childlike Lydia who has a crush on James. She is particularly humorous when she unsuccessfully tries to seduce the teacher.

Scenic designer Katherine Fry has produced a minimal set that changes functionality with scenes and also complements the lighting of Lynne M. Hartman .

Barksdale's production of "Children of a Lesser God" is solid and entertaining. It provides a stage for thought. How do different cultures learn to understand each other's world and experiences? How can you relate to something that is so foreign to you?

"Children of a Lesser God" plays through March 22 at Barksdale Theatre. Tickets are available online at www.barksdalerichmond.org or by calling the theatre at 282-2620. Ticket prices are $38 with a $3 discount for students, seniors and Ukrop's cardholders.