Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/14049
LONGBEACHMAGAZINE.COM 69 The behaviors of the characters become more convoluted. Soon, Mathilde arrives back at Lane's home with news that Ana's cancer has come back and that she refuses to go to a hospital. Charles, frantic for his lover's health, goes out to Alaska to cut down a Yew tree, which supposedly has healing powers. Mathilde manages to convince Lane to visit Ana. While at Ana's home, Lane examines Ana with an air of coldness before breaking down and crying. It is here Mathilde discovers her 'perfect joke' and realizes that it did not kill her after all. Not to give away the full plot of this delightfully awkward romantic comedy, go and see the ending for yourself. It is sure to not disappoint. "The Clean House" is an award-winning play by Sarah Ruhl, which won the 2004 Susan Smith Blackburn Prize, awarded annually to the best English-language play written by a woman, and was a Pulitzer Prize finalist. It has received a staggering amount of positive reviews from some of the countries toughest critics and in 2006; Entertainment Weekly magazine named the New York production one of the top ten theatrical attractions of the year. Be sure to visit the International City Theatre for this great tale being heralded as a poignant, unpredictable and wildly funny look at class, comedy and the true nature of love. A special preview show will take place on August 24th, as regular showings will begin August 27th-September 19th. As one reviewer wrote, "The Clean House" is a delicate play for rough times." Who knows it may just inspire you to clean up you house, if you prefer that kind of thing to some great comedy. The rest of you can go and find your perfect joke. n Tickets can be purchased at ictlongbeach.org Photos courtesy of International City Theatre