Review by Val O’Bryan, Front Row Reviewers
Thanks to the Utah Shakespeare Festival’s “Complete the Canon” initiative, I was able to catch a showing of Timon of Athens, one of Shakespeare’s lesser-known (and produced) works. I was very curious to see how director Lisa Peterson and dramaturg Isabel Smith-Bernstein would handle the challenges and complexities of the play. My curiosity paid off.
Timon (Elijah Alexander) is a wealthy man living a lavish lifestyle surrounded by flatterers and artisans who eagerly accept his gifts and favors. His frequenters include a poet (Anatasha Blakely), a painter (Darin F. Earl II), a merchant (Christopher Centinaro), a jeweler (Gabrielle Francine Smith), and two senators (Jeorge Bennet Watson and Jasmine Bracey). Timon’s wealth is apparent to audiences through his opulent home and sumptuous feasts. Scenic designer Tanya Orellana keeps the set minimalist but luxurious. The inclusion of chandeliers adds an elegant touch. Another clear indicator of wealth (or lack thereof) is through wardrobe. Costume designer An-Lin Dauber gives the wealthy characters regal jewel-toned attire. Pay attention to the wardrobe colors and the connection to the characterization.
Timon’s steward Flavius (Sheila Tousey) tries to warn him about his excessive spending, but Timon ignores the advice. The guitar-slinging Apemantus (Nell Geisslinger) is another voice of reason, albeit cynical and critical. I didn’t expect the instrument to be anything more than a basic prop, but Paul James Prendergast, sound designer and original music composer, wrote actual music to be played on it. Timon’s relationships with these characters evolve and become even more meaningful as the plot develops. Peterson does something very special with the relationship between Timon and Apemantus. Although the dialog can get biting and harsh, Timon and Apemantus have a deeper understanding and mutual appreciation, despite their conflicting philosophies. The “pinky promise” shared between the two illustrates the intimacy they share, despite their hostile verbal confrontations.
Eventually, Timon’s financial habits catch up with him and Timon’s creditors demand repayment. The attendants (Jack Doherty, Gabrielle Francine Smith, Jeremy Thompson, Jasmine Bracey, Jeorge Bennett Watson, Darrin F. Earl II, and Anatasha Blakely) come to collect payment and Timon and Flavius do their best to avoid them and put them off. This leads to some very comical moments and unexpected reenactments of contemporary Spiderman memes. Many cast members play multiple characters. Watson and Bracey, in particular, do a fantastic job of transforming into completely different people (and the quick changes!). Voice and text coach Philip Thompson no doubt contributed to this change in voice and stage manager Jade Bruno keeps the transitions running smoothly.
Timon seeks help from his so-called friends, but they all turn their backs on him, refusing to lend him any assistance. Timon falls from grace and the transition from wealth to waste is tragic but exquisite. The lighting by Tom Ontiveros and the changing chandeliers is poignant. Audiences see Timon come undone in physical and emotional ways, illustrating Alexander’s adeptness on stage.
Devastated by the betrayal of his supposed friends, Timon retreats to a cave outside Athens, becoming a bitter misanthrope. He chooses to live in self-imposed exile, condemning humanity and rejecting society. Flavius and Alcibiades (James Ryen) seek him out and Timon realizes that they are his only loyal friends but they aren’t able to change his new perspective on life and humanity. Apemantus also pays Timon a visit and the exchange between them has moments of friendship and warmth and ends in crushing bitterness. The conversation (and movements! What choreography by Caitlyn Herzlinger!) that unravels between the two characters is just one of the many powerful moments in the production but this particular moment feels like the signature of the entire production team on this unique interpretation.
Do not miss this rare opportunity to see Timon of Athens. Even if you find another company that is willing to take on the challenge, you will not see a more cohesive and thoughtful production than the one at the Utah Shakespeare Festival.
Utah Shakespeare Festival presents Timon of Athens, by William Shakespeare.
Eileen and Allen Anes Studio Theatre, 351 W Center Street, Cedar City, UT 84720
Plays on select dates until October 7, 2023, 2:00 PM and 8:00 PM
Tickets: $15-85
Contact: 435-586-7878 or 1-800-PLAYTIX, guestservices@bard.org
Utah Shakespeare Festive Facebook Page
Photos by Karl Hugh. Copyright Utah Shakespeare Festival 2023
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