by dick kerekes dickkerekes@yahoo.com
Jacksonville University’s Theatre Arts opened the Frank Galati’s Tony Award Winning play The Grapes of Wrath. John Steinbeck’s Pulitzer winning novel was made into an Academy Award winning film in l940. Director Deborah Jordan’s production of this searing indictment of man’s cruel indifference to his fellow men is a winner as it is on the stage of the Swisher Theatre. It continues until February 24, and is one you don’t to miss.
The plot follows the improvised Joad family as they migrate from the parched land of Oklahoma to work in the fields and orchards of California. The family struggles to maintain some dignity and pride when they find the good life they looked for well out of their reach.
The large student cast playing characters either much older or younger than themselves, do an excellent portrayal of many interesting personalities. Tyler Graham as the son, Tom Joad, gives a special strength to his actions as he takes stands to reverse the injustices of society. Laura Peterson, as the maternal Ma Joad, is a real trooper, performing on crutches after breaking her leg in the auditions (“Break a Leg” is just an expression, Laura). Dax Dyer finishes up his JU career with one of his best performances as the tag-along preacher who has lost his faith in God but not in mankind.
Also impressive are Jorge Chaps as Pa Joad, Rachel Hineman and Jay Deen as the grandparents, Matt Watson as Uncle John, Sam Smid playing Al, Jason Dietz (Noah), Annie Lorenzana (Rose), Alexander Miller (Connie), Emily Kraudel (Ruthie), and TJ Urbanek as Winfield. Rounding out the cast in various roles from policeman to fellow travelers were Jesse Moreno, Adam Walesiewiz, Michael Coley, Caroline Clark, Rafael Christian, Byron Berthelot, Johnnie Bovain Jr., Clinton Hollinger, Cecilia Vega and Caitlin Moran
Ben Wilson’s set design and evocative lighting uses mostly open stage with several ceiling to floor flats that lined either side of the stage and were partially covered with strips of boards resembling the old sun-dried wood found in the shacks the Okies lived in. Set pieces are moved on and off for campfire scenes and family meals, but the most impressive is the Joad family transportation, an old jalopy that looks like a Model T Ford. It has an electric motor and is driven all over the stage. Great job to Technical Director Robbie Nelson and staff.
Costume Designers Allison Steadman and Rodney Waldrip must have spent hours in thrift shops looking for old clothing, it looks very authentic with only one suggestion. Take the ironed pleats out of the men’s pants, these folks didn’t own an ironing board and if they had, they probably burned it to keep warm.
My only other suggestion is for most of the cast to increase their volume. Because the stage is so open, voices get swallowed up by the high ceiling and curtains. This is especially true for the actors that, out of necessity, must occasionally say their lines with their back to the audience.
When you go, be sure to read the excellent contribution in the program by JU economics professor Dr. John B. Buck entitled “The Impact of the Great Depression.” It gives insight about the circumstance of the play as well as a look at today’s economic situation.
There are several graduation seniors in this cast, but it mostly consists of undergrad students who performed difficult material well. The future looks bright for the theater program and I am already excited by Director Jordan’s upcoming shows this season. Watch for Oklahoma and Lysistrata in April.
If you have not experienced the new Swisher Theatre, it is a wonderful theatre space and now among my favorites in this city to see a play.
The Grapes of Wrath is an epic story of a dark time in the history of this country and a play that will make you think. There is a bit of earthy language but if I had not eaten anything but a couple of potatoes in a week, I guess I would be cussing too. I highly recommend this show. Seats are first come first serve, so sit up front to see the fine details up close.
The Swisher Theatre is on the campus of Jacksonville University on University Blvd N in the Arlington area. Tickets are $l0 for adults and $5 for seniors, students and military. Call (904) 256-7677 for reservations and information.
Article Published in the 2-21-08 Issue of EU Jacksonville
|
