Grapes of Wrath
at Avon Theatre in Stratford
This play is based on John Steinbeck’s novel of the same title
commissioned in 1036 by a San Francisco newspaper to investigate
and write about the living conditions of the dispossessed
migrant workers in California. Steinbeck followed the path of
the “Okies” (Oklahoma farmers) at the peak of the Great
Depression. Evicted from their land after losing their jobs,
farms, and homes, they travelled across the United States to
California, where they hoped to find work in the vineyards and a
new life.
The novel, which I read for the first time in high school in the
60's, is gut wrenching: the promised land of America unwelcome
if not hostile and the people the Okies encounter on their way
are mean and cruel. The adaptation of the novel by Frank Galati
shows all of above enabling the audience to live through their
journey in just a few hours.
 The directing of Antoni Cimolino is excellent. The actors
especially Janet Wright as Ma, Evan Buliung as Tom, Tom McCamus
as Jim Casy and Chilina Kennedy as Rose of Sharon are memorable
and their acting breathtaking. Also very much worth applause are
the creators of
 musical elements, so beautifully integrated into the scenery and
tale.
Somehow the story from about 75 years ago echoes in current
times as well: hundreds of thousands of Americans are losing
their jobs, eventually losing their homes to the
 banks,
struggling to survive and hoping for a better future after the
2008 downturn of economy, the plight of the dispossessed people
after Katrina disaster, - or for that matter, the lives of
migrant workers of modern days not knowing where they will be
working next year and what the future will bring.
It is a sad and cruel life.
Grapes of Wrath continues at The Avon Theatre till the end of
October.
The Misanthrope by Moliere at the Festival Theatre
This is a very classic French comedy of the 17th century
intended to entertain and amuse,- a beautiful set (John Lee
Beatty), beautiful costumes (Robin Fraser Paye) and a very
charming production under the direction of David Grindley.
The translation has been updated and modernized by Richard
Wilbur (thank you, Mr. Wilbur for that!).
Originally the production was to be directed by Brian Bedford,
who was also to act in the play. Unfortunately Brian Bedford had
to withdraw for medical reasons.
I don’t know what could be different if Brian Bedford took over
the production.
The subject is deceit versus honesty, deception versus openness,
games people play versus truthfulness. Nothing new under the
sun, be it 17th century France or current times. Ben Carson is
amusing as Alceste, Juan Chioran very good in the role of his
friend Philinte and Sara Tophan as Célimène.
There are no afterthoughts or conclusions, no drama or memories
to cherish - just a charming French comedy with very beautiful
costumes.
The Misanthrope continues at The Festival Theatre till the end
of October.
More detailed information is available by calling and requesting
a seasonal brochure 1-800-567-1600 or at
www.stratfordshakespearefestival.com.
Exit the King at Soulpepper in Toronto
Albert Schultz is an outstanding director, actor and leader of
one of the best theatres on this continent. He dares to produce
masterpieces of the modern theatre, cashes in on plays not
staged in decades – “because they are difficult and the audience
would not understand and they just want entertainment” and draws
crowds that come from nowhere, give standing ovations and ask
for more. Thank you, Albert Schultz, for your vision and your
leadership!
Exit the King was written in 1962 by Eugène Ionesco, a French
playwright. Neil Armfield and Geoffrey Rush have updated the
translation; the dialogues utilize modern language and common
phrases, while at the same time preserving classic Ionesco.
“Death is our main problem,” said Ionesco and the play follows
various stages of decay of 400-year old King Berenger destined
to die by the end of the play. He is old and tired, but does not
want to die. He fights every step to avoid death – and we are
witness to it. As per Ionesco’s notes the role of the King,
marvellously played by Oliver Dennis, is very physical. He
stumbles, falls down, attempts to get up, gets confused, and
ends up in a wheelchair. At first he displays the royal gown and
the very long royal cape. At the end he wears only sagging
underwear. And yes, he dies at the end.
Two wives, the older one, Queen Marguerite played by Brenda
Robins, is pragmatic and realistic. At times she sounds cruel,
but there is a hidden affection in her. The young one, Queen
Marie played by Karen Rae, is emotional and ready to protect the
King by spinning out hopes and delusions. The Guard and the Maid
(Derek Boyes and Trish Lindström) are spectacular contributions
to the play.
Although it certainly is not and was never intended to be a
comedy, the play evokes sudden bursts of laughter from the
audience. Be prepared for it, it is the best of the Theatre of
the Absurd and this Albert Schultz production is the celebration
of it.
Exit the King continues at Soulpepper in the Distillery District
of Toronto till September. The season program lists White Biting
Dog, The Price and The Odd Couple in the near future. Tickets
can be purchased by calling 416-866-8666 or by visiting
www.soulpepper.ca.
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