THEATER REVIEW : Cohen’s ‘Orestes’ Updates Euripides

Euripides is the source for adapter-director R. Jeffrey Cohen’s “Orestes--I Murdered My Mother,” at the Burbage Theatre. But so are television news and interview shows, and the dubious smarts of today’s streets. Cohen cleverly juxtaposes some recent parricides with a classic Greek one, and his thought is clear.

What is also clear is a strong debt to Steven Berkoff’s “Greek” and the British writer-director’s basic style. Cohen’s frenzied staging often works but doesn’t hide the general lack of authority in his performers, an authority that would give muscle to the piece. Joshua Miller doesn’t have it as the unshaven Orestes, nor does Stephen Cooper as the grungy Pylades. The only cast member who has the iron core and vocal sinew to carry it off is Soleil Moon Frye. When the production hits the viewer where it should, it’s her doing.

“Orestes--I Murdered My Mother,” Burbage Theatre, 2330 Sawtelle Blvd., West L.A. Thursdays, 8:30 p.m.; Fridays-Saturdays, 7:30 p.m. Ends May 15. $15; (310) 478-0897. Running time: 1 hour,50 minutes.