Prodigal Son

Prodigal Son

Manhattan Theatre Club

New York City Center Stage I

March 26, 2016

Photo courtesy of Manhattan Theatre Club

I originally had a ticket to see John Patrick Shanley’s Prodigal Son at Manhattan Theatre Club when it was in previews.  Unfortunately, that was the Saturday of the big snow storm that caused the cancellation of all the Broadway and Off Broadway shows.  Due to the outstanding reviews and great word of mouth, I had trouble getting a ticket since then.  Lucky for me, I got to see it in the final weekend.

In the program notes, Mr. Shanley states that the play is “a true story for the most part.”  He continues to write, “I wish more generally that you could have shared my whole life with me, so we could discuss and compare.  These plays I write are the best I can do to make that possible.”  In this play he magnificently captures the desperation of a fiery adolescent who yearns to discover the road that will lead him to a great and productive life.  The play is full of passion and idealism, truth and desire. 

David Potters & Timothee Chalamet
Photo courtesy of Manhattan Theatre Club

Jim Quinn (played by Timothee Chalamet), a troubled teen from the Bronx, is given a scholarship to Thomas More Preparatory School in New Hampshire.  One of his teachers, Alan Hoffman (played by Robert Sean Leonard) takes him under his wing, and the wife of the Headmaster (played by Annika Boras) recognizes his talent and insight.  After a few outbursts and some daring rule breaking, the Headmaster (played by Chris McGarry) begins to think that the Jim’s scholarship was not in the school’s best interest.

Robert Sean Leonard & Timothee Chalamet
Photo courtesy of Manhattan Theatre Club

The performances are truly outstanding.  Timothee Chalamet is quirky and captivating in the lead role.  His physicality and Bronx accent are lyrical and poetic.  His character is overflowing with an unbridled vitality and lust for life.  Chris McGarry’s Headmaster Schmidt is complex and layered.  As his wife, Annika Boras is endearing and honest.  Robert Sean Leonard brings a subtly to the secret side of the character of Alan Hoffman that both stuns and cajoles. 

Photo courtesy of Manhattan Theatre Club

The set design by Santo Loquasto is rich and creative.  He minimally conjures the estate and mansion of the New Hampshire prep school, and gracefully move each scene on and off with style.  With original music composed by Paul Simon, the audience is easily drawn into the rhythm and tempo of the setting, and can look closely into the focus and motivations of the characters.

Mr. Shanley also served as director on this production.  Truly amazing!  It would be great to see him direct at Manhattan Theatre Club again next season. 

Domenick Danza