On Sunday May 20 I was treated to the brand-spanking new production, Sideways the Play. It’s not exactly like the book or the film, and though the tale is the same Sideways fans will love finding…a great ending.
And for those of you that haven’t even heard of Sideways, or have forgotten the story, here is a synopsis of the story lifted from the show’s website http://ruskingrouptheatre.com
Sideways the Play, adapted by Rex Pickett from his own novel, is the story of two friends – Miles and Jack – and their journey across the Santa Ynez wine country. On one last blowout trip before Jack gets married, Miles and Jack must face their uncertain futures, just as soon as they figure out how to survive their chaotic present.
As this is a wine column I will start with:
The Pinot Tasting
Every show, matinee or evening, promises a Pinot Noir tasting that Miles would approve of. The day I went the winery was Sonoma coast’s Sharp Cellars 09 Keenan Cove with 14 percent alcohol. A color of raspberries with an auburn edge was followed by a nose of dark cherries, white pepper, pale mintiness and mushrooms. The taste was chock full of balanced red fruits, softened tannins, black pepper on the back palate. The finish, long with both silkiness and peppers hanging in to the end…time to refill the glass!
Now, from here you can to straight to http://westranchbeacon.com/category/eve-bushman/ for the full review of the show in words if you would like to completely fill your Pinot Noir glass…or just stay here for a taste via photos. (All photos are courtesy of the show, save the last with me in it!)
Jack (Jonathan Bray) flirting with Terra (Cloe Kromwell) a few days before he weds another. She may have just said something about needing a "spanking."
Miles (John Colella) explains his love of Pinot Noir to Maya (Julia McIlvaine), a famous monologue from the film.
Jack and Miles at one of many wine tasting bars, discussing either women, books or the wine.
This the first Santa Ynez wine bar that Miles and Jack hit - and hit it hard they did. (While we patrons sipped our Pinot and watched = priceless!)
All four of the leads during their first date with lots of wine, little regrets. Afterwards Jack and Terra get (very) physical while Miles and Maya have a deep conversation about wine and his soon-to-be (or not) published book.
Jack and Terra in the midst of new love...doomed when she learns of his upcoming nuptials. (She steals the scene when she confronts him later.)
Eve, Rex Pickett, Vance Sharp (Sharp Cellars) after the play. I was telling them both how much I loved the show and the wine!