Willa Cathers beloved American classic, in Book-Its latest novel-to-play adaptation, is set in the golden fields of Nebraska in the late 1800s, and wistfully recalls the childhood friendship of Jim Burden and Bohemian immigrant girl Ántonia Shimerda. The lack of a consistent narrator is a downside, but George Mount and Annie Lareau offer exceptionally engaging lead performances, and the rest of the cast infuses each scene with a quirky and endearing passion. Book-Its production succeeded in fulfilling their mission of inspiring audiences to readit certainly made me want to pick up a copy. NANCY SMITH 7:30 p.m. Wed.-Sat., 2 p.m. Sun. (and Sat. starting Dec. 13). Ends Dec. 21.
Tue., Nov. 25, 7:30 p.m.; Wednesdays-Saturdays, 7:30 p.m.; Sundays, 2 p.m. Starts: Nov. 25. Continues through Dec. 21, 2008