Theater: “The Lehman Trilogy” at Park Avenue Armory (2019)

In the 1840s, three German-Jewish immigrants landed in Alabama and in a matter of years, became cotton traders (or “middlemen,” as they called themselves.)

One brother, Hayim (or Henry) Lehman dies from yellow fever; the other two, separated by the Civil War, eventually moved to New York and under the tutelage of Henry’s son Philip Lehman (played by the brilliant Simon Russell Beale), evolved Into the powerful firm known as behind Lehman Brothers.

The brilliance of “The Lehman Trilogy” is that it is not about the failure of capitalism. It’s about a family business that lost its way when it ceased being a family business.

Written by Stefano Massini, and translated into English by Ben Power, this three-hour spectacle, with only three actors playing all the parts (including the Lehman spouses)never fails to enthrall.

Directed by Sam Mendes, the set itself is a star—a high-tech conference room that doesn’t change in 200 years.

Live piano-playing by Candida Caldicot who sat two feet in front of us. Star-watchers note: Blythe Danner was seen at intermission. No sign of Gwyneth. Or Goop. At Park Avenue Armory. (Saturday)