Quintessence Theatre Group presents Edmond Rostand’s Cyrano de Bergerac, adapted by Martin Crimp

Complex and curious

J Hernandez delivers a standout performance as Cyrano, capturing the character’s complex blend of roguish charm, humor, and raw vulnerability. His portrayal perfectly balances the charismatic bravado required to lead men into battle with the poignant self-doubt that prevents him from confessing his love to Roxanne, played by Erica Lynn Bridge.

Bridge's Roxanne has a curious character arc. Initially channeling a vibe reminiscent of Cher Horowitz or Regina George, she appears more like a high-school queen bee than the learned lover of words. This choice feels at odds with Cyrano's admiration for her intellect, but as the play unfolds, Bridge reveals layers of vulnerability, strength, and passion. By the third act, when Cyrano speaks to her in disguise, her performance has transitioned into something far more grounded and sincere.

Daniel Chase Miller’s portrayal of Christian is pitch-perfect for the role of a handsome but somewhat shallow suitor, playing well against Hernandez’s depth as Cyrano.

Slight missteps

The show begins with a bit of unevenness. The opening act, set in a theater, introduces us to Lignière, portrayed with charisma by Lee Thomas Cortopassi. While Cortopassi is engaging, the raucous staging with voices and characters emerging from all corners of the Sedgwick's performance space feels disorienting, which slows the momentum and muddles the scene-setting.

The ensemble is strong throughout, with Janis Dardaris particularly shining in her role as Leila, bringing to life the historical transition from poetry to prose. Burns’s direction is bold and ambitious, making this adaptation of Cyrano feel fresh and relevant, though at times, the comedy feels a bit heavy-handed, slightly bogging down the pace.

Dynamic and imaginative

The production design, led by Burns, leans consistently contemporary, with Sydney Dufka’s costumes nodding to the period while maintaining a modern freshness. John Burkland’s lighting design injects vibrant energy into the performance, enhancing the mood and pace.

This Cyrano de Bergerac finds its footing through dynamic performances, imaginative direction, and a striking blend of old and new. Burns’s vision brings Rostand’s story to life in a way that resonates with today’s audiences, highlighting the timeless nature of love, wit, and poetic rebellion.