The actors of Live Theatre Workshop did an outstanding job portraying their characters in Saturday’s production of “”The Subject Was Roses.”” The cast of three filled the stage with vibrancy, truth and authenticity.

The play begins in a middle-class Bronx apartment at the return of Timmy Cleary (played by Eric Schumacher) from World War II in Europe to the home of his parents John and Nettie Cleary (played by Bill Epstein and Cynthia Jeffery). These actors all bring energy to the stage that electrifies their roles and captures the audience.

A journey through time showcases the struggles families had to overcome in readjusting themselves to their new family dynamics at the time. Also, it clearly sheds light on attempting to create your identity separate from your parents and leave the house to find your own way, an issue many college students have faced.

As old memories resurface throughout the play, old fights consume the characters. The actors fill these verbal, and sometimes physical, arguments with life. While watching the action unfold, it is hard to imagine this sorted bunch ever reconciling.

Visually and aurally, the play echoes the charm of the 1940s in a well-executed reflection of post-war life in the United States. All of the designers played an integral role in successfully bringing the world to life.

There is not a bad seat in the whole house. This intimate theater space provides the perfect forum to feel a part of the action and closely examine the changes that occurred not only within war veterans after years of service, but also in the families they left behind.

“”Roses”” can be seen at the Live Theatre Workshop, 5317 E. Speedway Blvd., through Oct. 14. Showtimes are Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday at 3 p.m. Admission is $17 but $14 if you pay in cash. Call 327-4242 for reservations and more information.