Review: Great Barrington Public Theater, "How to Not Save The World with Mr. Bezos"

Great Barrington Public Theater, Great Barrington, MA

www.GreatBarringtonPublicTheater.org

through June 22, 2025

By Suzanne Wells

Great Barrington Public Theater kicks off the summer with the highly anticipated world premiere of “How to Not Save the World with Mr. Bezos,” a compelling dark dramedy penned by Maggie Kearnan and directed by Clay Hopper. Kearnan, a fresh voice in contemporary theater, recently earned her master’s degree from Boston University and brings a sharp, thought-provoking perspective to the stage. Her play masterfully blends historical and cultural touchpoints, taking elements of the French Revolution, a dash of revenge, and an unexpected hint of cartoon mischief to craft a story that is both entertaining and unsettling.

Set in a dystopian future where accumulating vast personal wealth has been outlawed, the play opens in a sleek, modern conference room dominated by a long table. The audience, seated in an arena-like formation surrounding the stage, is immediately drawn into the atmosphere, reminiscent of a Roman Colosseum. This arrangement intensifies the drama unfolding before them, immersing viewers in a gladiatorial battle of ideology and power.

Photo by Lauren Jacobbe

At one end of the table sits Cherry Beaumont, a determined journalist representing Forbes Magazine. Across from her looms the formidable figure of Jeff Bezos. Their conversation begins as a standard interview but quickly escalates into a heated ethical debate over the responsibilities of the ultra-wealthy in addressing global financial disparities. As tensions rise, secrets emerge, further complicating the struggle at play.

 

Providing a fascinating counterpoint to the mounting drama is the "Fact Checker," stationed at a small podium to the side. Armed with an arsenal of props, he injects bursts of humor and levity into the increasingly charged discussion, serving as both comic relief and a sobering voice of reason.

Eliza Fichter delivers a mesmerizing performance as Cherry, her energy and precision making it nearly impossible to look away. Her ability to command the stage ensures that every moment of the debate feels urgent and alive. Noah Ilya Alexis Tuleja steps into the role of Jeff Bezos with striking intensity, expertly walking the fine line between eliciting audience sympathy and disdain. Meanwhile, Shai Vaknine, in his debut performance as the Fact Checker, shines in his role—providing both well-timed humor and intelligent interjections that elevate the entire production.

This play is an electrifying, thought-provoking theatrical experience that leaves the audience questioning—are we ready for a revolution?