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Regional Reviews: Raleigh/Durham Here in America
Here in America had its official premiere at England's Orange Tree Theatre in the fall of last year. The play follows the relationship between director Elia Kazan (known as Gadg) and playwright Arthur Miller (Art) who are caught in the crossfire between their work and their political beliefs. Both have been called out by the House Un-American Activities Committee during the height of the Red Scare of communist infiltration in America. The two face the threat of blacklisting as each must choose between their careers and standing up for their convictions. Kazan's wife, known as Day, stands with her husband and urges him to protect himself and his career. The apparition of Marilyn Monroe (nicknamed Miss Bauer by the two men) had a relationship with both men, ultimately marrying Miller. She appears like an apparition to help the two men grapple with their thoughts and responses. Artistic Director Jerome Davis directs this thrilling story. His attention to detail is only enhanced by Tom Burch's brilliant scenic design and Matthew Adelson's crafty lighting. Lynda Clark's costume design is period perfect and assists the actors in embodying their characters, while Juan Isler's sound design fills the air with period music and echoes of gavels falling in cavernous congress rooms. In the small black box theatre of the Murphey School Auditorium, professionalism never falters. Andrew Goins as Art and Chip Carey as Gadg command attention; they are young actors with very promising futures. Sarah Lynn Winter has been on stage with Burning Coal more than once, most recently in the acclaimed production of Merrily We Roll Along. Ms. Winter holds her own with the likes of Miller and Kazan as Day and is just as noteworthy. Emma Roe as Miss Bauer brings to life the public sex symbol that was Marilyn while at the same time, bringing her humanity more to light. In the political climate we currently find ourselves in, where creativity and political discourse are seen as open opportunities to invite "cancel culture," this play seems just as fitting an allegory as Miller's The Crucible was in the 1950s. May theatre continue to challenge our minds and touch our hearts. Here's to the next Millers and Kazans to do just that; Mr. Edgar seems to be leading the way. Here in America, presented by the Burning Coal Theatre Company, runs through December 21, 2025, in the Murphey School Auditorium, 224 Polk St., Raleigh NC. For tickets and information, please visit www.burningcoal.org or call 919-834-4001. Playwright: David Edgar Cast: |
