Illyria

Illyria

The Public Theater

November 25, 2017

Photo courtesy of The Public Theater

Illyria is an intimate look at the artistic yearnings and sense of community that motivated Joseph Papp and his friends to begin the Shakespeare Festival and later build what is now The Public Theater.  Playwright and Director Richard Nelson creates a captivating atmosphere where we, as an audience, gain access to personal conversations in rehearsal rooms, around the dinner table, and after a closing night performance.  The personal conflicts among the characters keeps the action flowing as we gain insight into the sensitivity, ambition, commitment, and vision of these men and women who shaped the New York City cultural landscape.

Photo courtesy of The Public Theater

The year is 1958 and Stuart Vaughan (played by John Sanders) is auditioning actors for a production of Twelfth Night for the free Shakespeare Festival in Central Park.  His producer, Joe Papp (played by John Magaro) wants to cast his wife, Peggy (played by Kristen Connolly), in the role of Olivia.  Stuart wants to cast a young actress, Mary Bennett (played by Naian Gonzalez Norvind) in the role.  This opens a can of artistic conflict between the two men, which includes the fact that Joe feels betrayed because Stuart has accepted a job with Phoenix Theater and is hiring most of their friends and company members.  In the next scene the battle between the Parks Department is unraveled.  The concept of presenting free Shakespeare in the park becomes a negotiating issue for everyone except the artists committed to presenting it.  The final scene takes place in the Central Park at night, where we gain a visceral understanding of what it at stake for all involved, especially Joe Papp.

John Magaro as Joe Papp
Photo courtesy of The Public Theater

The cast is an amazing ensemble, subtly playing off one another’s breath and glances.  The play is calm, quiet, and wonderfully naturalistic.  The audience becomes fully absorbed in the intimacy of the relationships.  This is a very tight group of friends who are bonded by artistic and creative experiences.  Sitting in The Public Theater for this performance offers an astounding perspective.  You gain a renewed appreciation for the beliefs and ideals on which Joseph Papp built the institution that has become not only a cultural pillar in the City of New York, but a model for artistic excellence across the country.

Illyria is running at The Public Theater through December 10.  Go see it!

Domenick Danza