The Shark Is Broken

 The Shark Is Broken
Golden Theater
August 5, 2023 

Photo courtesy of The Shark Is Broken

The Shark Is Broken tells the behind the scenes stories of the three main actors from the movie Jaws.  It is funny, touching, and remarkably entertaining.  As the characters talk about their art, their careers, and the future of the movies, the audience gains insight into their faults, their goals, and how the world has not changed much in the past fifty years. 

Richard Dreyfuss (played by Alex Brightman), Roy Scheider (played by Colin Donnell), and Robert Shaw (played by Ian Shaw) are stuck on a boat between takes of filming the movie Jaws.  The mechanical shark has broken down again, so production is further delayed.  Richard Dreyfuss is wining about how cold it is.  Robert Shaw is impatient and drinking heavily.  Roy Scheider is reading the New York Times, maintaining his focus.  While Richard Dreyfuss is hoping this movie will make him a star, Robert Shaw knows that it will fail creatively, but probably make a lot of money at the box office.  These two men go head to head on a number of issues, both personal and professional, while Roy Scheider acts as referee, keeping them from killing each other.  

Alex Brightman as Richard Dreyfuss
Photo courtesy of The Shark Is Broken

The three actors perfectly capture the men they are playing, both physical and vocally.  Alex Brightman delivers the laughs as Richard Dreyfuss.  He genuinely portrays the insecurities and paranoia of the character.  The audience gains a keen insight into Mr. Dreyfuss through clear backstory and a brilliant performance.  Colin Donnell portrays Roy Scheider as the calm, level-headed one in the group.  When he reaches his breaking point, it is both surprising and satisfying.  Ian Shaw is boisterous and forceful as Robert Shaw.  He drinks heavily and has a short fuse.  The exposition about his childhood and relationship with his father is beautifully written and masterfully performed.

Colin Donnell as Roy Scheider
Photo courtesy of The Shark Is Broken

The energy levels of the three portrayals complement one another very well.  There are numerous arguments and a few brawls.  Every conflict builds powerfully, and is followed by honest moments of camaraderie and understanding between them.  They share one common goal, which is to make a movie.  No frustration, fight, breakdown, or tantrum gets in the way of their achieving that.  Their final scene before wrapping is Robert Shaw’s monologue from the movie, which he re-wrote himself before filming.  It sums up their struggle, and ends the show with a truthful moment.

Ian Shaw as Robert Shaw
Phtos courtesy of The Shark Is Broken

The play is written by Joseph Nixon and Ian Shaw (son of Robert Shaw), so the stories carry a level of credibility.  Director Guy Masterson keeps the action tight and moving in the confines of the setting.  Video design by Nina Dunn, lighting design by Jon Clark, and sound design by Adam Cork combine to create a turbulent and fast changing atmosphere that enhances the action of the storyline. 

The Shark Is Broken is a unique tale, well-conceived and expertly told.  If you are a fan of Jaws, you must see this play.  If you have not seen the movie, you will still find it riveting.  It is  playing at the Golden Theatre. 

Domenick Danza