The My Ballard team were invited to the preview of Ghost Light Theatrical’s The Hairy Ape at Ballard Underground (2220 NW Market St). The play opens tonight at 7:30 p.m. and will run through May 5th.
The play is an expressionist piece by Irish American playwright Euguene O’Neill and was directed for Ghost Light Theatricals by Antioch University graduate student Wilder Nutting-Heath. Nutting-Heath is a trained marriage and drama therapist who utilized a combination of traditional directing and therapeutic techniques to help the actors connect with the story and their characters.
The Hairy Ape was written in 1922 and explores the story of middle-aged laborer Yank who is trying to find a sense of belonging in the world. The play uniquely combines choreographed movement, stage violence and shadow work to take the audience on a journey into the dark depths of Yank’s soul and to show his sense of alienation from society and the world around him.The piece delves into the issues of social class and masculinity and how they can lead one, such as Yank, to a solitary and adversarial existence
Richard Carmen delivers a strong and emotional performance as Yank and is supported by a solid and cohesive ensemble. The lighting and sound add to the sombre tone of Yank’s downward spiral and shadow effects are well used throughout the performance.
Tickets are $15 for adults and $12 for students, seniors and TPS members. Click here to check out more information and to buy tickets.
Photo courtesy of Ghost Light Theatricals. Photo credit – Adam Sanders.
