Universal appeal of life in ‘Our Town’

Few American masterworks rival “Our Town” for enduring pertinence, and this quality irradiates the affecting revival at Interact Theatre Company.

Thornton Wilder’s 1938 Pulitzer Prize-winning celebration of diurnal existence in early 20th century New Hampshire receives a comprehensive production, with one qualifier.

It transpires, as always, on a bare stage, overseen by a stage manager (James Greene, alternating with Dave Florek). This Wilder-surrogate charts a diorama of small-town life that telescopes into a universal reverie on eternity.

Director Mariclare Costello clearly understands the delicate ambience. Evocative unity of intent marks Curt Beech’s setting, Erich Keil’s lighting, Peter A. Lovello’s costumes and Julie Ferrin’s sound.

The cast is another unbeatable asset. Kelly Lohman and David Drew Gallagher make wonderful young lovers, with a memorable courtship scene. They have exceptional parents in Liz Herron, Gregory White, Susan Hull and Lance Davis. Other standouts in the splendidly committed ensemble include Sharon Madden’s gossip, Ralph Drischell’s constable, Steven Hack’s milkman and Sandy Kenyon’s organist.

The sole reservation concerns Wilder’s structure. “The First Act was called the Daily Life. This act is called Love and Marriage. There’s another act coming after this: I reckon you can guess what that’s about.” This is deliberate -- the scope expands with each interval, and both actors and audience need the breathing room.

This production, however, conflates Acts 2 and 3, exposing the ideally cast Greene’s technique, and rushing Lohman’s deeply felt apotheosis. Nevertheless, given the sobs overheard at the reviewed performance, only purists need complain.

*

‘Our Town’

Where: Interact Theatre Company, 5215 Bakman Ave., North Hollywood

When: Thursdays-Saturdays, 8 p.m.; Sundays, 3 p.m.

Ends: April 6

Price: $12-$25

Contact: (818) 765-8732, Ext. 23

Running time: 2 hours