The Parisian Woman

The Parisian Woman

Hudson Theatre

December 30, 2017

Photo courtesy of The Parisian Woman

Uma Thurman makes an impressive Broadway debut in The Parisian Woman.  Her presence is strong and her intentions carry each scene she is in, which is every scene in the play.  Beau Willimon’s script is set in present day Washington DC, and packs a number of direct and potent punches at the Trump administration.

Chloe (played by Uma Thurman) is married to Tom (played by Josh Lucas), a highly successful tax attorney who is being considered for a judgeship.  They are very adept at the Washington political game and their marriage is an open relationship.  When Tom confesses to her his motivations and truthful understanding of the good he can do if he is appointed, she decides to use her influence to help him.

Uma Thurman & Marton Csokas
Photo courtesy of The ParisianWoman

The plot has a few twists and surprises, and Ms. Thurman pulls them off glibly.  She beautifully plays the surface charm her character needs in her surroundings, and her deeper moments of truth are clear and genuine.  Josh Lucas is charming as her husband Tom.  Together they are a driving force.  Blair Brown is potent and grounded as Jeanette.  Phillipa Soo is eager and idealistic as Rebecca.  Marton Csokas is passionate as Peter.  He and Ms. Thurman share a few fiery moments that heighten the action of the story.

The play is well directed by Pam MacKinnon.  The set, designed by Derek McLane, stylishly establishes the locations and keeps the action smoothly moving from scene to scene.  The Parisian Woman is playing at the Hudson Theatre through March. 

Domenick Danza