This September, Cincinnati Shakespeare Company brings us a new version of the Henrik Ibsen play An Enemy of the People by playwright Amy Herzog. When the town doctor unearths a problematic secret about the community’s prized health resort, he comes face to face with the age-old question: how far are people willing to go to stand up for what’s right?
The Production Team
Director Brian Isaac Phillips excels at the use of space that The Otto M. Budig Theater offers and has smartly placed this production in the round. This shrewd choice allows the audience to truly feel like they are part of the community, which is a central character in this play.
When the tale being spun heavily involves the element of water, it is only fitting for Scenic Designer Jon Savage to capitalize on this beast of nature. The stage itself is surrounded in part by what can only be described as a version of a moat and is a creative touch to a simple, yet versatile set. Shout-outs to work by Lighting Designer Baxter Chambers and Costume Designer Erin Reed Carter for their complementary aesthetics.
The Performing Artists
In probably the best performance I have seen of theirs to date, Montez Jenkins-Copeland delivers as Hovstad, the editor of the local newspaper. Just when you think Mx. Jenkins-Copeland can not get any better, they do. They are a very physical performer and their embodiment of this liberal (but only so far as his bottom line isn’t affected) businessman is all-encompassing. If the character’s words aren’t telling us how he feels, the actor’s physicality certainly does. Bravx to a flawless interpretation!
Also giving an expert performance in acting with your entire being is Matthew Lewis Johnson. If you wondered what the word “smarmy” would look like personified, you should make sure to see Mr. Johnson’s turn as Mayor Peter Stockmann. His vocal talent is beyond measure as is his attention to stature as well as engagement with his fellow actors. The room most certainly changes each time the Mayor enters and this is no small feat. A thoroughly impressive turn by Mr. Johnson.
To round out to trifecta of corporeal execution is the incomparable Barry Mulholland. Mr. Mulholland’s manner is always that of a consummate gentleman and the man utterly exudes class. His subtle changes in both vocal cadence and facial expression are rife throughout his stint as Aslaksen. Even when playing less-than-admirable people, it is difficult not only to dislike him but to keep your eyes from what he is bringing to the table.
The rest of the ensemble boasts the talents of Jasimine Bouldin; Jim Hopkins; Sylvester Little, Jr.; Patrick Earl Phillips; and Brent Vimtrup without whom the action onstage would falter. Each of the eight performers delivers a strong and compelling performance.
The Sweet and Lowdown
Cincy Shakes is one of the masters of choosing scripts which contain timeless lessons. Enemy is no exception: it discusses truths and half-truths and what human beings tell themselves to sleep well at night. I will admit I was not personally a fan of the dialogue skewing modern in random parts while still keeping the piece in an era at least somewhat close to the original text, but it did not derail the heart of the story. When is a lie better than the truth? That is your own decision.
Tickets for An Enemy of the People
An Enemy of the People runs now through September 20th. For more information about the production and to purchase tickets, please visit Cincinnati Shakespeare Company’s website here.
- Run Time: 2 hours plus a 15-minute intermission.
- Content Advisory: Contains some strong language
