Elizabeth Aspenlieder and Mark Zeisler Photo by Nile Scott Studios

Set designer Arthur Wilson brings us to a current winter in Minnesota. There's a table with a red and white tablecloth and behind it a view of a mountainside. The play begins as Betty (Elizabeth Aspenlieder) provides narration downstage left. The only worry here is that versatile Aspenlieder might continue in this capacity throughout and she's too gifted for that. Olive (Peggy Pharr Wilson), from Texas but now living in this north country, sits at the table and then talks with Betty as these two souls trade stories. The women drink wine and Betty admits she wanted an ex-boyfriend done away with. Kaput or end of life. Betty recommends that Olive follow that advisory.

We get to meet two hit men who are irresistibly amusing: Tor (Michael F. Toomey) and Gus (Mark Zeisler). Tor, a burly fellow, is an optimistic dreamer. Gus tries to embody the professional hit man mode–at least he attempts to convince himself of that much. Olive gets to spend some time with these two, seemingly unaware that the theoretically tough guys might rough her up. Betty, from Kentucky and wearing a University of Kentucky ball cap at one point, is edgy, silver-tongued, and persistent as she prods her new friend, Olive, to follow through on a plan. What's clear is that both women are lacking or, perhaps, needy, so it's fitting that Olive says, "We need to be in control again." The problem is that Olive is under-confident and down on her luck. Betty, on the other hand, is the driven extrovert who pushes to get the supposedly bad guys (one time boyfriends) murdered.

Swanson pairs comedy with revenge within The Norwegians. Betty and Olive would be gratified, it seems, to knock off the former partners. Betty, as the play moves forward, has the opportunity to embellish her wishes with humor and this is one of Aspenlieder's foremost strengths. She is masterful with facial grimace or a more deadpan look. She can be droll or more outwardly campy. It's all about urging Olive to make certain the former lover is dead and gone as soon as possible.

Meanwhile, Tor (thanks to costume designer Arthur Wilson) looks the part of the tried-and-true Norwegian. Even his winter headgear, a bulky, knitted skullcap, is perfect. Tor repetitively affirms his authenticity while Gus seems more intent on fulfilling his self-description as a guy who can rub out anyone at anytime.

The performers, in various configurations, tend to sit around the table until author Swanson injects a delectable dance sequence, whereupon everyone gets to move around playfully. Call this a merry, jovial sequence and it is delivered quite precisely. Choreographer Kirsten Peacock is pivotal here as she has created a neatly balanced scene. Toomey is a hoot with some nifty sashaying as well.

The Norwegians was first produced Off-Broadway in 2013. C. Denby Swanson, who graduated from Smith College, evidently came to Lenox to some rehearsals early on during the recent Shakespeare & Company process. Warwick has noted that the playwright made some quick, timely revisions.

Bringing together four actors with extensive stage credits throughout New England and elsewhere is wise, since cast members blend individual expertise within the context of this eclectic play. Aspenlieder has performed more than 40 times at Shakespeare & Company and it's a pleasure to witness her at her best. Peggy Pharr Wilson highlights Barrington Stage Company's 10 x 10 New Play Festival each winter. Michael F. Toomey, a company member at S & Co for more than 20 years, is also touring his one-person comedy entitled No Body Cares: America's Favorite Healthcare System. Mark Zeisler, having appeared in more than 20 TV series, has credits on and Off-Broadway as well as at multiple regional theatre companies. This is his fourth season with Shakespeare & Company.

This production exemplifies artistic chemistry and camaraderie. One could argue that each of the characters is, in his or her own specific way, searching. The synergy among the actors is both tangible and perceptible. These highly adept performers imbue this humorous play with spirit and even rapport.

The Norwegians runs through October 4, 2026, at Shakespeare & Company, Elayne P. Bernstein Theatre, 70 Kemble St., Lenox MA. For tickets and information, please call 413-637-3353 or visit Shakespeare.org.