Reviewed by Tony Annicone
Trinity Repertory Company’s latest blockbuster epic show deals with the French Revolution and is one of the best shows about the best of times and the worst of times. Events of that time are examined in a unique way with Trinity Repertory Company’s “A Tale Of Two Cities” by Charles Dickens. It was adapted into a two hour show that examines the major events in the novel. It was written by Company member Brian McEleney who delves through the layers of the Dickens epic novel and brings the major characters into clearer focus for the audience to enjoy and savor in the hopes that the same mistakes are not repeated in the 21st Century.
The very insightful director Tyler Dobrowsky sets the show in a library where the cast reads from the books at first to absorb these meaningful and life changing events of the past. They learn about the struggle between the upper classes and the suffering poor that ran rampant in the 18th Century to a hopefully bring it into lesser extent in current times. Knowledge is power rings through in this well written, directed and acted show. The show also focuses on a love triangle story amidst the craziness and chaos of political unrest at that time. This electrifying show keeps your interest from start to finish, making it the must see show of this winter season.
Tyler always gets strong and in depth performances from his cast and this show is no exception to this rule. His 13 member cast, some who play multiple roles, become each character they portray at every moment. When the revolution finally descends on the proceedings is brilliantly performed as the inside of the library set is decimated in a profound manner as they revolt against an oppressive society. Their destruction of the books is horrifying, making it a reflection of keeping the masses ignorant and keeping their mob mentality pulsing with hatred and scorn. When the evil Marquis looks like a current historical figure and the chant becomes “Beware the Immigrant” in Act 2, is the time we realize unfortunately history is repeating itself.
The show is full of colorful characters. Leading this talented cast is the author of this adaptation, Brian McEleney as Dr. Manette. He creates a memorable character, being befuddled when he is first released from the Bastile and becoming stronger as the show progresses. After being imprisoned for 18 years, the doctor is finally reunited in 1775 with his daughter, Lucie, played perfectly by a luminescent Rebecca Gibel, who is torn between two suitors, Charles Darnay strongly played by Taavon Gamble and Sydney Carton excellently played by Daniel Duque-Estrada. Rebecca’s acting prowess brings you to tears when she is reunited with the father she thought dead, when her husband is put on trial three times and almost killed. Later she becomes a strong heroine. Darnay renounces his position in society to be with Lucie. He is related to the villainous Marquis but Darnay escapes to England to be reunited with Lucie. Carton is a wastrel most of the show although he becomes heroic at times helping others. His ultimate sacrifice at the end of the show tugs on your heartstrings and Daniel delivers a heartfelt performance while doing so.
The pompous overbearing Marquis who is evil to the core is played to the tee by Matt Clevy who has a huge blond wig on. His despicable behavior can be seen when there is a flashback in Act 2 which shows his disregard for two poor siblings by causing their death. Rachael Warren is astounding as the terrifying Madame Defarge who seeks revenge for the death of her family by the Marquis. She swears to get revenge on them continually throughout the show. She and her husband who is also a wine merchant must ensure anyone who opposes the new regime has to face the dreaded guillotine. Stephen Berenson has many strong moments as Monsieur Defarge who makes sure that mercy is denied at all costs. Tim Crowe also delivers the goods as the family banker who continually boasts that Mr. Lorry is only a man of business. Rachel Dulude is a hoot as the Darnay’s maid who only speaks English and helps them escape France by battling a madwoman near the end of the show. So for a stunning and electrifying adaptation of the classic epic Dickens novel, be sure to catch “A Tale of Two Cities” before time runs out. Be sure to run and not walk to the box office before the show is completely sold out.
A TALE OF TWO CITIES (20 February to 22 March)
Trinity Repertory Company, 201 Washington Street, Providence, RI
1(401)351-4242 or www.trinityrep.com
