By Michele Markarian
An Education in Prudence – Written by Stefan Lanfer. Directed by Pascale Florestal. Presented by Open Theatre Project, St. John’s Church, 1 Roanoke Avenue, Jamaica Plain, MA, through February 24.
Although “An Education in Prudence” takes place in 1833, and the educational issues it deals with have been resolved, the undertones and attitudes around the issues resonate sharply with today’s divisive America. In witnessing the drama, one can’t help but be reminded of what ensues when closed minds refuse to unfold, not just with racism, but with sexism, homophobia, xenophobia, and fear of the other.
The play, inspired by the research of historian Beth Miller, tells the story of Prudence Crandall (Caitlin Gjerdrum), a schoolmistress in Canterbury, Connecticut, where black men and women are supposed to be free and equal citizens. Encouraged by the eager interest of young black women who wish to be educated, Prudence allows them entry into the Canterbury Female Boarding School. This does not sit well with the locals, who do their best – and succeed – to close down the school. It is a sad and harrowing journey to witness. The North, as we learn, was not always as liberty-loving towards its black citizens as we have been led to believe in history class. The State of Connecticut does not want to educate blacks, as they will multiply, “to the detriment of the State”. Horrifying sentiments which illustrate America’s racist roots that still cling to the earth, even as we try to destroy them.
St. John’s Church lends itself nicely to Abby Shenker’s scenic design, which makes excellent use of the staircases and doors of the space; the wooden interior is easy to imagine as a 19th century schoolhouse. The cast does a great job with both the contemporary and historical characterizations. Particularly affecting are mother Hope (Regine Vital) and daughter Julia (Christa Brown), whose relationship is touching and credible. Vital plays both mothers – she is also historical Julia’s mom – with a steely and loving touch. Brown is an actress gifted with tremendous stage presence; you feel her every emotion vividly. Shana Jackson as Ann/Eliza Hammond is very moving, delivering a powerfully upsetting monologue after being attacked by a group of boys. Jon Vellante shows versatility as the easygoing Coach Drew and the uptight bigot Andrew T. Judson. Grant Furgiuele’s sound design heightens the drama and suspends disbelief with its realism as rocks shatter the school’s windows and cannons are fired.
Playwright Lanfer very cleverly couches the drama within the context of a modern day museum, where visitors are asked to play roles in the historical re-enactment of the school’s drama. This allows for some anachronisms, like student Julia asking, as 19th century student Julia Williams, why the girls weren’t learning any music by black composers. The end of the play has the visitors returning to their modern day roles, where they learn of the fate of the school and its inhabitants. What’s nice about the piece is the way in which Lanfer doesn’t wrap up the ending neatly and tie it in a bow for us. Julia is still angry, telling her modern day teacher, Miss C (also played by Gjerdrum) that she needs more from her teacher than posting selfies with white friends in pussy hats. When a frustrated and emotional Miss C. says she is trying, Julia recognizes that. It’s not exactly a happy ending, but it’s a kind of rapprochement. For more info, go to: https://www.theopentheatre.com/
