Williamstown Theater Festival, Williamstown, MA
through July 25, 2015
by Jarice Hanson
In "Kinship," author Carey Perloff has mined the
mythological story of Phedre to tell a contemporary story of passion,
obsession, and power in a compellingly contemporary way. Noted director Jo
Bonney sets the tale on a stark stage with minimal furniture, well used to
illustrate the dark and light of emotion and impulse, intensified by Philip
Rosenberg’s lighting and an edgy techno sound-track designed by Fitz Patton.
On opening night there were some rough moments in the
performances, but the talented cast has the intelligence and humor to reach
into the core of what makes this show compelling. Cynthia Nixon, as “She,” is
the energetic newspaper editor who seems to have it all—a loving family and the
type of success promised to women -- but seldom realized. Penny Fuller, her close friend,
provides friendship and guidance despite the age difference in the duel
archetype of “Friend/Mother.” Into the picture comes Chris Lowell as “He,” the
Mother’s son, and what emerges is an unfolding of multiple themes that walk the
tightrope of impulse, honesty, and self-deception.
"Kinship" is very much a contemporary play about
women in the world today, and it relies on the undercurrents of sexual
attraction and power, particularly well communicated by Nixon. Author Perloff
gives the actors beautifully crafted sections of dialog, but there are moments
of staccato verbiage that fall flat and self-referential language that has
characters saying “I hate theatre” while drawn into their own dramas is a
device that may amuse some, but was unsuccessful for this reviewer. With time,
these actors will find the way to incorporate some of the intentionally clipped
language so that it is woven more fully into the fabric of the play.
"Kinship" is an intelligent piece with humor and impact. The timelessness of Greek tragedy
reminds us that desire often overrules good judgment, and this play may well
become a milestone marking the evolution of strong women in contemporary theatre.
