Dakota is a distinguished Producer at Chill Bucket Productions — a celebrated film company and festival.

Modern Classics Theatre’s production of Of Mice and Men at the BACCA Arts Center in Lindenhurst, running from September 28 to October 13, offers a thought-provoking rendering of John Steinbeck’s classic tale of friendship, dreams, and tragedy. Directed by Marian Waller and produced by Jill Linden, the production remains true to the harsh realities of Depression-era America, bringing the story’s rawness and humanity to the forefront, while also showcasing the company’s mission of producing innovative, seldom-seen works.

As I strolled down the quaint main street of Lindenhurst, with its mix of local restaurants and storefronts, I discovered BACCA Arts, a cozy venue nestled among the local businesses. Stepping inside, I was immediately greeted by warm smiles and an inviting atmosphere that reflected the community spirit of the theater. The seating arrangement was modest but functional, with just three rows of tiered padded chairs, creating a sense of intimacy between the audience and the performers. Attendance was sparse when I arrived, but by the time the clock neared 8 p.m., the room had filled with local theatergoers, friends, and family members, all excited for the evening’s performance.

The simplicity of the set design was a key element in the success of this production. Rian Romeo’s set was composed of wooden pallets, barrels, crates, benches, and bales of hay, with an exposed brick backdrop that evoked the stark, dusty world of a California ranch. The absence of a curtain allowed for quick and seamless transitions between scenes, facilitated by Dan Kani’s tasteful lighting design. The lighting was never overpowering or misplaced, effectively transitioning between day and night and contributing to the mood without drawing attention away from the actors. Ambient sound effects, such as distant dogs barking, further enhanced the immersive, rural atmosphere.

The heart of Of Mice and Men lies in its characters, particularly the relationship between the protective, world-weary George and the childlike, innocent Lennie. Steve Corbellini, as George, offered a solid performance, making his character relatable and likable. Still his portrayal could have been strengthened by playing further with the dichotomy of authenticity and charm to solidify his role of both caretaker and dreamer. Corbellini effectively guided us through much of the action and storytelling, providing the audience with a steady narrative anchor. 

George’s nomadic companion and optimist Lennie, was brought to life with impressive nuance, by Mark T. Cahill. In contrast with his large, physically-imposing frame, the actor skillfully conveyed Lennie’s childlike wonder and innocence, particularly through his facial expressions, tics, and joyful musings about soft things like rabbits. These subtle details made Lennie’s eventual fate all the more heartbreaking, as the audience witnessed the tragic gap between his good intentions and the harsh world around him. The actor’s portrayal was both emotionally charged and tender, capturing Lennie’s vulnerability in a way that resonated deeply.

Jes Almeida’s portrayal of Curley’s Wife was another highlight of the production. While Steinbeck’s writing limits her stage time compared to the male leads, Almeida made the most of her scenes, bringing a layered depth to a character often portrayed as a mere object of male suspicion. Her performance was both strong and vulnerable, subtly showcasing the loneliness and desperation that lie beneath her outward flirtation. While I would have liked to see a spark of malice or bitterness early on—something to lend credibility to the ranch hands’ gossip about her—Almeida’s portrayal was ultimately compelling. The reveal of her true personality, her yearning for connection, made her final moments in the play feel especially poignant.

Chris Ammons, as Crooks, delivered a brief yet memorable performance. His portrayal of the marginalized stable hand was filled with an honest, understated dignity. In his one significant scene, Ammons masterfully revealed Crooks’ isolation as a Black man in a white-dominated ranch, subtly conveying his acceptance of his outsider status while also yearning for human connection, particularly in his tender exchanges with Lennie. 

Dan Bellusci as Curley was effective in portraying the character’s anger and insecurity, with his performance capturing the energy of a man driven by jealousy and a need for dominance. However, Bellusci’s portrayal occasionally veered into one-dimensional territory, lacking the emotional depth that could have made Curley’s character more complex. A brief moment of vulnerability—perhaps when he discovers his wife’s death—might have heightened his subsequent rage and given his confrontation with Lennie even more emotional weight.

The production’s pacing was mostly steady, though it could have benefitted from a faster tempo in some scenes. There were moments when the action lagged, and a quicker rhythm might have intensified the dramatic tension, especially in key moments of conflict. Additionally, the cast’s use of period-specific accents occasionally hindered the clarity of the dialogue, making it difficult to follow certain exchanges. 

The cast’s use of the space was engaging. The opening scene, where the actors leaned over the edge of the stage to simulate drinking from a stream, was particularly effective, creating a sense of immersion and connection with the audience. The actors also remained focused and in character, even as ambient noises from a nearby bar occasionally crept into the performance space, a testament to their professionalism and commitment.

In conclusion, Modern Classics Theatre’s Of Mice and Men succeeds in delivering an intimate, honest portrayal of one of Steinbeck’s most enduring works. The production’s strengths lie in its heartfelt commitment and subtleties as well as its thoughtful, minimalist staging. For Long Island theatergoers seeking to experience a powerful and poignant piece of American literature, this production is well worth the visit. The theater’s commitment to innovation and inclusivity only strengthens its impact, making it a vital part of the local arts scene.