Sign up for our newsletters Subscribe
A richly textured drama that works on many levels, Timberlake Wertenbaker's 1988 play depicts a marvelous transformation based on a true story. Convicts sent in 1788 to Australia are required to perform a comedy by George Farquhar as a civilizing exercise--which becomes an opportunity for a second chance. Far from the first folly on the "fatal shore," their crude revival pays tribute to the power of life to imitate art. Though Stephen F. Murray's Promethean Theatre Ensemble staging is sometimes too accurate in its accents to be understood, the persuasive ensemble creates characters who mirror various reactions to art then and now. At every turn the parallels to modern penal camps carry this history play from the past into the present. --Lawrence Bommer a Through 4/7: Thu-Sat 8 PM, Sun 2 PM, Athenaeum Theatre, third-floor studio, 2936 N. Southport, 312-902-1500, $10-$20.
Support Independent Chicago Journalism: Join the Reader Revolution
We speak Chicago to Chicagoans, but we couldn’t do it without your help. Every dollar you give helps us continue to explore and report on the diverse happenings of our city. Our reporters scour Chicago in search of what’s new, what’s now, and what’s next. Stay connected to our city’s pulse by joining the Reader Revolution.
Are you in?
Not ready to commit? Send us what you can!
More by Lawrence Bommer
-
The State Theatre's Social Media Stunt
Mar 10, 2010 -
The Producers
Sep 27, 2007 -
Phantom
Sep 20, 2007 - More »
