Charlayne Woodard Listens And Learns From Children

Every child should have an "auntie," in whom they can safely confide things they might be reluctant to share with parents.

One such "keeper of secrets" is actress and playwright Charlayne Woodard, who has crafted a warm and engaging solo show about some of her close relationships with children.

"The Night Watcher" is Woodard's valentine to children of friends and relatives whom she has mentored through fun times and crises. In the Primary Stages' New York premiere off-Broadway, Woodard performs wonderfully as a storyteller, animatedly describing triumphs _ and pitfalls _ she has encountered in her role as a trusted, loving adviser.

Cleanly directed by Tony Award-winner Daniel Sullivan, Woodard recounts how she developed the art of listening to children. Beginning with empathy for a wet infant at a christening, Woodard frankly relates situations that arose with kids of all ages where she tried to teach them coping skills _ often learning something herself in the process.

Equally adept at acting out her own or the children's parts, Woodard hilariously conveys teenage attitudes and misperceptions. She also shares memories of adults from her own childhood who provided milestone moments.

Passing along hard-earned wisdom to the next generation is a privilege that Woodard obviously cherishes. Several stories deal with difficult subjects, yet family and love pull nearly everyone safely through these trials.

A spare, versatile set backed by rear projections, designed by Charlie Corcoran and Thomas Lynch, lets the audience use their imagination as Woodard's tales unfold in many locations.

Lucky are the children who have enjoyed confiding in and hanging out with "Auntie Charlayne."

This captivating production is at 59E59 Theaters through Oct. 31.