What it is about
“An Evening with Tennessee Williams” showcases three one-act plays by the illustrious American playwright. This production by Rhinoceros Productions, featuring artistic director Miriam Metzinger and director Jacob Lunon, brings audiences compelling human drama steeped in both comedy and tragedy.
Why it matters
In merely three short plays, Williams explores themes that resonate profoundly with contemporary audiences. From human conflict and manipulation to personal resilience, these plays reveal universal truths that transcend time and geography. This theatrical watercourse provides much-needed introspection during turbulent times, and highlights the timeless relevance of Williams’ work.
Details
Unlike standard narratives, each of the three plays dives directly into fervent drama. Tennessee Williams’ work has been nuanced by Lunon’s unique touch, forged from his rich past working on the same plays in New York City 50 years ago. Such directorial finesse offers a striking, raw, and ethereal experience for theatergoers in Jerusalem.
Standout Plays
“The Lady of Larkspur Lotion” (1941)
The curtain rises on a fantastical storyline where a tenant (Miriam Metzinger) weaves amusing tales to distract her demanding landlady (Andrea Katz). The situational comedy tightens with the intervention of a whimsical poet (Yehoshua Looks).
“Auto-Da-Fé” (1941)
The most intense entry, starring Andrea Katz (as Mrs. Duvenet) and Simon Stout (as Eloi), delves into psychological turmoil following a scandalous discovery. The themes and title strikingly echo the devastation of the past, especially poignant for the Jewish community.
“Hello from Bertha” (1946)
This final piece portrays a dying prostitute (Metzinger) whose departure complicates life for the brothel madame Goldie (Sarit Brown) and fellow Labour, Lena (Sorah Grotsky). It is a gritty introspection into the fragility of morale in desperate conditions.
The Takeaway
An Evening with Tennessee Williams is an orchestrator of remarkable acting, extraordinary direction, and choreography. Audiences are drawn into intense and relatabilty-filled narratives, verifying why Williams is celebrated globally and fostering an understanding of human existence’s simultaneous absurdity and profundity.
Backstory: Meeting Tennessee
Director Jacob Lunon recalls a vivid Tête-à-Tête with Tennessee Williams during a 1974 off-Broadway run of these one-acts. His rare opportunity to work closely with Williams left an indelible impression, shaping his directorial career and solidifying his connection to these profound narratives. Lunon’s journey epitomizes resilience against all odds, echoing themes central to Williams’ own works.
What to Know
What:“An Evening with Tennessee Williams,” three one-act plays
Who:Rhinoceros Productions; director Jacob Lunon; artistic director Miriam Metzinger
Where:Khan Theater
When:Through June 13
Why:Experience resonant firsthand themes, riveting drama, and poetic vibrancy.
This story was first published on jpost.com.