Emmy-nominated actresses Melissa Gilbert (“Little House on the Prairie”) and Veanne Cox play pen pals in the Off-Broadway show “Pen Pals,” which is being performed at DR2 Theatre in New York City.
“Pen Pals” was written by Michael Griffo and it was directed by SuzAnne Barabas.
The play is a celebration of the endearing power of friendship and connection through handwritten letters that span nearly five decades.
In “Pen Pals,” Bernie (Melissa Gilbert) and Mags (Veanne Cox) live in two different countries (United States and England respectively), they haven’t met in person, but they are best friends through their intimate and sincere letters to one another.
Ever since their teens, they’ve shared every part of their lives together, which include their innermost secrets (first crushes, relationships, and all the drama that came in their personal lives, the losses, and even medical scares).
Melissa Gilbert was sublime as Bernie opposite an equally fabulous Veanne Cox as Mags. They brought emotion, charm, charisma, and humanity to their characters.
The Verdict
Overall, Melissa Gilbert and Veanne Cox were sensational in the Off-Broadway show “Pen Pals” at DR2 Theatre in Manhattan. They both delivered sentimental acting performances that ran the gamut.
They both made some great acting choices with their characters, which resulted in unique interpretations of Bernie and Mags that we hadn’t seen by any other prior actresses that took on these complex roles. They were able to breathe fresh life into Michael Griffo’s play.
Despite the cold and chilly weather that was taking place outside the venue, Gilbert and Cox were able to move their audience on an emotional and spiritual level with their poignant portrayals, which moved many audience members to tears. Prepare to be blown away.
This iteration of “Pen Pals” garners an A rating. Well done.
To learn more about the Off-Broadway play “Pen Pals,” check out the official website.
