Oh, what good ‘Boys’

SpeakEasy proves how well they know their ‘History’

REVIEW. Do we learn for knowledge or to get into a better school? So goes the debate in “The History Boys,” the Tony Award-winning play enjoying a great production by the Speak-Easy Stage Company.

Though the question is never answered, you will leave the Calderwood Pavilion after more than two hours of thoroughly engaging theater with plenty of fodder for future discussion.

Set in a British boarding school, Alan Bennett’s play focuses on eight seniors preparing for entrance exams to Oxford and Cambridge. To improve his school’s standing, the social climbing Headmaster (Timothy Crowe) hires Irwin (Chris Thorn), a young teacher who knows how to get them to make the grade.

Irwin’s nemesis is Hector (Bob Colonna), an unconventional 60-something academic whose zest for learning leads the boys to sing Edith Piaf, speak only in French and map out their lessons as they go. The old codger also capitalizes on the sexual curiosity of teens when he gropes them on weekly motorcycle rides.

The lone female perspective belongs to Dorothy Lintott (Paula Plum) an aging educator who taught the boys the basics before they got mired in confusing allegiances to Hector and Irwin.

Colonna’s Hector is so likable that you’re almost willing to forgive his perversions. Thorn and Crowe both shine as outcome-oriented academics while Plum delivers a stellar, if crusty, performance as the impatient older lady.

But the real star of this impressive production is the ensemble of eight young men who are the “Boys.” That they could create such an authentic camaraderie in the short span of rehearsal time speaks volumes about their collective talent and the meticulous direction of Scott Edmiston. 

‘History Boys’
Through June 7
BCA Calderwood Pavillion
MBTA: Orange line to Back Bay
$51 - $54, 617-933-8600
www.speakeasystage.com