Critics of early versions praised the witty, acerbic writing but noted that Fisher appeared uncomfortable on stage. It's true that her best talents are as a writer. It's no coincidence that Meryl Streep, not Fisher, played the heroine in Postcards From the Edge, the 1990 film version of Fisher's autobiographical novel.
But after two years of performances, the actress, 51, now seems at home in the theater. Her singing voice is a well-worn contralto, but it's apparent that she inherited some of her famous father's ability to shape a tune.
Designer Alexander Nichols' set undoubtedly helps Fisher feel comfortable. She is just slightly taller than 5 feet, and before the curtain rose, I feared the Lincoln Theatre's vast proscenium stage would dwarf her. But Nichols carved out a modestly scaled living room within that space, with a settee and a screen on which to display family photos. In addition, Fisher's forays into the audience make the 1,600-seat venue feel practically cozy.
