Jason Marks Takes Center Stage In JFT's Production Of 'Zero Hour'
Image Source: Todd Schall-Vess
Community theatre can sometimes be hit or miss. You go to a community center and see some worn-out attempt of a classic such as The Sound of Music, or you find a hidden gem that you might not have seen otherwise. The Jewish Family Theatre's production of Zero Hour by Jim Brochu at the Jewish Community Center in Richmond, Virginia is the latter of such community theatre experiences. Starring locally acclaimed actor Jason Marks as the sole live actor onstage, this show keeps your attention from beginning to end and leaves you wanting more.
The play takes place in 1977, a few months before the death of actor and comedian Zero Mostel and has the audience take the role of a reporter for the New York Times writing a piece on the entertainer. Throughout both acts, Mostel tells all, from his childhood in New York, to his early success, and even the Blacklist caused by the Red Scare-fueled House Un-American Activities Committee (which was a central part of the play). The script is essentially one long monologue and is only interrupted by the silent questions posed by the unseen reporter, the phone calls from his wife asking him to get sour cream, Zero's flashbacks to his past, and the intermission in between the two acts. It is truly gripping and makes you interested in the life of Zero Mostel, even if you were only vaguely aware of who he was.
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However, the script is only part of the draw. As this is a one-actor show, the impetus is on that performer to draw the audience in, and Jason Marks delivers. He captures not only Mostel's eccentric personality, but also each visceral reaction to the recollection of each event. He makes the audience feel as if they are really having a conversation with him, truly embodying Zero Mostel not merely as character or a caricature, but as a real person. It is as if only for a moment, Zero Mostel is back among the world of the living.
Image Source: Todd Schall-Vess
To top it off, the scenic and lighting design is top-notch. The set, designed by Todd Schall-Vess, is made to look like Mostel’s painter’s studio in 1977. It is surrounded by recreations of Mostel’s paintings and images that would have been found in the studio. The lighting effects also complement each scene quite well, changing with each flashback. Both the scenic and lighting design really draw the viewer into this world.
Overall, Zero Hour at the JCC is quite the experience. As a one-man show, it is quite unique for community theatre. Jason Marks embodies the role and makes this performance one to remember.
Rating: 10/10
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