If it's acted well it's terrific....but your audience will find a mediocre production dry and boring. I've seen two productions and one was enthralling and one was grueling.

I LOVE this play.  I have never been in it, but would agree that the actors can make of break this play.  If you have two super actors for the leads and some good supports as the sons... then go for it.  The best production I ever saw was also in an intimate setting.... actually a very gothic looking church..... really added to the atmosphere.

I directed this play for BC Footlighters a few years ago, and was gratified to have the show win Best Play - voted by the AUDIENCE! It was unexpected, believe me.

The show is fabulous - truly fabulous - and you'll likely find that you have good actors showing up to audition, because the play isn't done enough and the acting challenge is amazing. (Playing Eleanor is on my list of roles to play before I get too old to remember my lines!)

Here's the thing to remember: it's a COMEDY - it's NOT a moribund drama, it's not a tragedy. Comedy -- says it right there on the cover. So, the trick is to direct it as a comedy, and let the drama in the play happen as a natural outcome of the development of the ensemble.

I'd be happy to answer any direct questions you may have - I might even have my rehearsal notes, cast breakdowns, and rehearsal scheduling matrix laying round. My email is president@bcfootlighters.com - don't hesitate to drop me a line if you want!