Set Gives ‘The Third Lie’ a Solid, Savvy Foundation

Danila Korogodsky’s set is the real star of “The Third Lie,” an intriguing California Repertory Company production at the Edison Theatre.

Howard Burman’s stage adaptation takes its name from the final book in Agota Kristof’s trilogy, which also includes “The Notebook” and “The Proof.” The books trace the lives of twin brothers who are separated through family tragedy and a path of inconsequential lies that build whole lives.

In the set, words are written on tall, translucent walls--and then erased, sometimes replaced by symbols or other words. Director Joanne Gordon also uses these walls to represent barriers--both emotional and physical. Music designer Justus Matthews has Angela Tabor and David Gerhart brashly banging percussion instruments, providing an atmosphere of foreboding that signals emotional and political conflict in an unnamed country much like Kristof’s native Hungary.

As both twins, Chris McCool adds a certain whimsy to this dark tale. But it isn’t always clear when the twins are together and when McCool is one or the other. The resulting befuddlement is perhaps the only weak point of an otherwise fine production.

Like this company’s recent “L’Histoire du Soldat,” “The Third Lie” is a provocative, intelligent piece of theater well worth seeing.

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* “The Third Lie,” California Repertory Company, Edison Theatre, 213 E. Broadway St., Long Beach. Wednesdays and Thursdays, 7 p.m.; Fridays and Saturdays, 8 p.m.; May 12, 19, 2 p.m. Ends May 19. $20. (562) 432-1818. Running time: 2 hours, 20 minutes.