Sometimes A Great Notion

Portland Center Stage's adaptation of the great Kesey novel is much better than I thought it would be. The heart of the book is captured in a highly theatrical production full of fine moments and memorable stage images. The choreography of work and fight scenes is especially good. The cast is good top to bottom. The set is great. What keeps this play from being as great as its conception is the pacing: there are too many slow repetitive moments. 15 or even 30 minutes shorter, this would be an extraordinary show. As it is, the accomplishment in bringing Kesey's novel to stage is considerable. And the monologue by the only woman in the cast is worth the price of admission.