MRS. WARREN'S PROFESSION A REVIEW

There is nothing as gratifying for a theatregoer as the joy of discovery. In the sometimes cruel world of the Broadway this does not happen very often and when it does it can be a welcome change from the often second rate product we get in these expensive theatregoing days. It is a pleasure to report that "Mrs. Warren's Profession" which George Bernard Shaw wrote in 1894 is still capable of providing a stimulating theatre evening,and it is being given a first rate production by director Doug Hughes and a fine cast.

When it was first produced this play was considered immoral and was banned from having a New York showing in 1905. It focuses on Mrs. Warren who runs a chain of brothels in Victorian England in order to give her daughter a life of comfort, and her attempt to re-enter her life after years of estrangement. When her daughter finds out about Moms past she is appalled and wants nothing to do with her.

How well the play works depends on the actresses playing these two very strong willed women, and it here that the play is most fortunate. Cherry Jones [who is becoming Broadway's finest actress] is superb as the Mom who not only defends her profession, but sees it as employment for her girls.

As the strong willed daughter who has become a success in the business world Sally Hawkins [after a weak first act] shines in the climatic final scene in which the two women have their final showdown. It's a strong scene, as good as any of our modern plays can offer.

The play is handsomly designed and costumed by Scott Pask and Catherine Zuber respectivly and Kenneth Posner's lighting is just right.

While "Mrs. Warren's Profession " is not one of Shaw's best plays, it still provides a worthwhile and stimulating evening.

At THE AMERICAN AIRLINES THEATRE 227 WEST 42nd STREET N.Y.C.