An Enemy of The People
The renowned Norwegian playwright Henrik Ibsen is celebrated for his thought-provoking and controversial works. His fascination with delving into the complexities of society and human behavior made many feel his works were scandalous. Out of his 25 plays written, one of his most influential plays was An Enemy of The People. The newly created Duality Theatre Co. boldly takes on this invigorating play, infusing it with its unique interpretation, strong drama, Ibsen's excellent dialogue, and compelling characters. They pulled off a smashing and enthralling performance that is not to be missed. Ibsen's narrative centered around political ambitions lies to downplay public concerns about polluted waters and the community's well-being. Dr. Thomas Stockmann and his sister, Mayor Polly Stockmann, engage in a compelling struggle against political corruption and an environmental crisis. When the boisterous Dr. Thomas Stockmann gets a letter informing him that his scientific analysis was correct and seeks to publish his findings, his hometown community is turned against him. In this timeless classic set in the 19th century, the story delves into the ethical dilemma of balancing the desire to benefit the public good with an individual's right to determine the consequences of their actions, particularly in light of misleading information regarding the doctor's perilous discoveries. Ibsen brilliantly details horrifying discoveries and how others handle conflicting situations with the trepidation of financial loss over human safety when the doctor's sister and town's Mayor warn her brother that making his findings public could result in people facing severe economic hardships. An Enemy of The People looks at the depravity of our society through the radical turns of editor Hovstad of the local newspaper, whose integrity and identity could be swayed financially, and dives into the corruption of humanity, displaying how we can easily be turned against others by falsifying the truth. This fragile allegiance to truth is witnessed in Ibsen's final act in the pivotal climactic town hall meeting called by the doctor to discuss the water toxins and how those he sought to save unleashed their fury.
Directed by Zoe Foteres did an exceptional job of orchestrating this talented yet seemingly unknown cast. Their spirited and witty approach was exuberant and entertaining throughout the two-hour production. The cast features minor roles played by Nathan Bradley, Bennett Petersen, Danny Tramontana, Serena Collins, Laila Malak, Mozelle Vann, and Chloe Rodriques as Mrs. Katherine Stockmann. Brady Magruder provides a riveting performance as the protagonist, Dr. Thomas Stockman, by superbly conveying the character's complex mixture of intrinsic dignity and willful pride. There were a few role changes in Henrik Ibsen's male characters, where Allison McCorkle and Tryumph Williams played the town's Mayor and editor, respectively. Tryumph Williams (Editor Hovstad) provided a strong and well-polished performance. Her sophisticated and confident characterization in a role Ibsen had written for male characters is outstanding. Allison McCorkle played another role written for a male character named Peter, the scheming and vindictive Mayor, now Mayor Polly Stockmann. Although there were a few trip-ups, her performance added to the robust performance given by the cast. Jack Hradecky provided a stellar performance as Apprentice Billing and Josh Graff was phenomenal as Printer Aslaksen. Ibsen drew names and traits from his relatives, including Stockmann, a real family in Telemark from which Ibsen was descended. However, he wrestled with the original theme of An Enemy of the People, contemplating whether it was a drama filled with mystery and intrigue or a light-hearted comedy with a narrative of profound ideas and controversy. Whatever his intentions, the Duality Theatre Co. cast performed it splendidly. I enjoyed this spirited, high-energy performance and look forward to seeing how Duality Theatre grows in the near future.
⭐⭐⭐
Duality Theatre Co.
An Enemy of The People
At The Crosby Theatre at The Den Theatre
Written by Henrik Ibsen
Translated by Eleanor Marx
Adapted and Directed by Zoe Soteres
May 17- 26, 2024
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