Theatrical Review: The Laramie Project

THE LARAMIE PROJECT
Written by: Moises Kaufman and the members of The Tectonic Theatre Project
Directed by: Prof. Susan P. O’Hearn
Theatrical Review by: Paul Adam Smeltz

The East Stroudsburg University* (ESU) in East Stroudsburg, PA (www.esu.edu) presented their Theatre Department’s production of “The Laramie Project” written by Moises Kaufman along with members of The Tectonic Theatre Project in The Fine and Performing Arts Building. The play takes place in Laramie, WY in 1998-99 where the brutal beating and murder of a young man named Matthew Shepard took place. “The Laramie Project” is based upon a series of recollections and reflections mixed in with the facts of the case. This recipe makes the production an evening of compelling theatre.

The play consists of a series of monologues carefully intertwined to not only tell of what happened in Laramie, WY but also to create the mood and the environment leading to a deeper understanding of the occurrence and the multiple issues relating to it. “The Laramie Project” begins with a theatrical group’s desire to learn more about the people effected by the death of Matthew Shepard and ends with the audience asking themselves more questions as they begin to learn how they’re effected by what they’ve seen. Each member of the ensemble cast takes on multiple characters which not only impresses those who see the play with their plentiful acting skills but it also shows how we, the audience, are not immune or innocent of the hatred and intolerance that brought about the young man’s death.

Yet, the play does not leave it’s audience without hope. While there is plenty demonstrations of anti gay sentiment, there is also demonstrations of compassion. The despair of the murder and torture of Matthew Shepard is balanced by the hope we, as a people, will overcome our prejudices and we’ll never hear such news again. It would be foolish to think this would be overcome in the next 10, 20, or even 100 years, but the hope is still there. All it needs is the seed of compassion this play plants in the hearts of those who experiences it.

This ensemble cast included Doug Breheny, Mark Carbanro, Kendra Getz, Rachel Mack, Jenell Anne Manzi, Merrill Mc Ginness*, Alice M. Mol, Heath Myers-Ackerman, Angelo Revilla III*, Raj Shankar*, Keighty Simmons, and Alex Wirth. As eluded to earlier, each actor/actress demonstrated their vast talents with performances transcending even the usually high standards of the production of ESU*. It was quite noticeable the roles they played were very close to their experiences and to their hearts. The Production was expertly Directed Prof. Susan P. O’Hearn and Stage Managed by E. R. Koenig* while Amanda Kalinowski served as Assistant Stage Manager. Paul W McKay was the Set Designer and Technical Director while Christie Berlane* served as Costumer Designer.

This production of “The Laramie Project” will continue its run at The East Stroudsburg University* in East Stroudsburg, PA (www.esu.edu) until December 2nd. Tickets can be reserved by calling 570-422-3483. The East Stroudsburg University* (www.esu.edu) next production will be The Stage II One Act Plays taking place February 5th through 10th. “The Laramie Project” is recommended to those who would like to the deeper side of themselves with the compassion we‘re all capable of.

(*) denotes members of The Forwardian Arts Society in good standing and are considered Our Good Friends.