It is not just the price of a house full of furniture and knick-knacks that is involved here. It is about the elaborate network of illusions we construct to protect ourselves from the truth and the high cost of maintaining those illusions because the cost of facing the truth may be higher. The confrontation between Victor and Walter, which occupies virtually the entire second act, is intricate and layered. Our view of Walter is shaped by what is said about him in the first act by Victor and by Esther. The Walter who shows up turns out to be far more complex and dimensional.
Nothing here is simple.
But Walter, who is seeking absolution and forgiveness from Victor, has paid a price what he has achieved, as he reveals to Victor and Esther. Here, now, in this loft apartment, Walter and Victor are made to confront the lies that have defined them for so many years. This is James Naughton's third directorial outing at Williamstown. His work has never been more sure or steady. Like the play, Nauthon's production is carefully crafted and smoothly orchestrated.