I had not seen this play for years. I'd forgotten how utterly poignant it is. Reading "Tom Lake" by Ann Patchett where the character of Emily is significant caused me to find this version and watch it again. While not perfect (some of the casting seems a little off) the essence of it is quite wonderful. Paul Newman is a controlled and striking Stage Manager. He oversees the events without charging into them. The two children (later adults) are pretty good. The eternally optimistic Emily is quite good which makes her parting at the end more crushing. This play should be seen by those who fail to just enjoy their days and grouse about the world, especially when there is little conflict. It's hard to imagine the third act without a tear.
