IRT's provocative 'Iron Kisses' charts changes in American families

Billy holds the wedding invitation in his outstretched arm. "It won't be the same if you don't come," he tells his mother.

Of course, the gesture is purely symbolic. His mom can't actually see the invitation, because they're on the phone. In fact, there's considerable distance between them, and not just literally -- with him in San Francisco and her in a small Midwestern town -- but figuratively, owing to their very different definitions of marriage. You see, Billy plans to marry his significant other, Michael.

Eventually, Billy's parents take a deep breath, attend the wedding and welcome Michael into the fold, even if things aren't exactly comfortable -- especially since Billy's only sibling, Barbara, is getting a divorce.

But then, roles and relationships change constantly in "Iron Kisses," Indiana Repertory Theatre resident playwright James Still's smart new comic drama about the evolution of the modern American family. And these changes don't happen only through the course of the plot.

The actors on stage also take on characters that one might not expect, often to great comic effect. Still has structured the script such that two actors play all roles. As a result, transitions between characters can be quite entertaining.

A man cast as Billy begins alone onstage, telling stories about Billy's parents, while portraying both of them. Then a woman, cast as Barbara, has her chance to do the same.

IRT's production, which runs through May 11 and is directed by David Bradley, comes across as both tongue-in-cheek and provocative. It also allows two seasoned Indianapolis players, Ryan Artzberger and Constance Macy, to demonstrate their considerable range, especially in terms of voices, stage movement and physical comedy.

Artzberger avoided playing Billy with stereotypical features -- except maybe for one hilarious snap of the fingers to protect a prized coffee table. But his mincing portrayal of the mother is great fun. I loved watching the big actor's sudden transitions into her character, begun with something as simple as the "delicate" crossing of her legs.

Macy's depiction of Barbara's repressed rage and her denial that she might resemble the mother are also highly entertaining.

Toward the end of the 90-minute show, comedy mixes with poignancy as the siblings about whom we've heard so much finally get together in Billy's San Francisco apartment. It is a bittersweet denouement that brings the family full circle.