Director William Sanders has crafted a thoughtful and intelligent interpretation of Paula Vogels award-winning play inspired by the true story of the controversial Broadway debut of Sholem Aschs "God of Vengeance" in 1923.
"Indecent" follows the shows initial success, through its tour in Europe, to its abrupt demise on Broadway, including the arrest of the entire productions cast and crew on grounds of obscenity.
Aschs play, set in a Jewish brothel, was performed first in Yiddish and German. The plays subject matter wasnt deemed controversial until it was produced in English on Broadway in 1923 and American audiences were scandalized by the plays depiction of a lesbian relationship between Manke, a prostitute and Rifkele, the daughter of the brothel's owner.
Jason Roth is earnest and passionate as Lemml the stage manager whose life is changed by the play. He acts as a narrator, introducing the actors and musicians who will be telling the story.
The other performers, who are all simply listed as actor in the playbill and play multiple roles, are sitting stoically on a line of chairs as the audience enters for a stark effect. There is even a stage light that is extinguished.
The play uses both Yiddish and German languages for an immersive and poetic effect. The plays overall musicality is enhanced by the trio of musicians - accordionist Michelle Lemon, violinist Bruce Gaston and clarinetist Nick Suarez “ who play klezmer-inspired music composed by Lisa Gutkin and Aaron Halva, throughout the play. There also is some singing interspersed.Super titles on the stages back wall effectively identify locations, dates, translations and more.
Anthony Rizzuto is driven and conflicted as the young Sholem Asch, who later descends into hopelessness.
Abigail Creighton as Rifkele and Kate Pistone as Manka, are luminously memorable as the two women in love on and off the stage. Their infamous rain scene is repeated to lovely effect. The women are both heartrendingly touching and ardent in their portrayals.
Although primarily a play within a play, the production also delves into other issues including anti-Semitism, persecution by the House Unamerican Activities Committee and the Holocaust.
The scenes of the troupe led by Lemml “ all wearing the yellow star of David on their lapels - performing scenes from "God of Vengeance" in Nazi Germany are poignant and tragic.
The rest of the cast including Pat Birnbaum, Will Windsor Erwin, and Mark Stutz are uniformly excellent.
The set is stark and simple with moody and evocative lighting by Will Morris.
Costume Designer Michael McDonald has created a muted palette for clothing with the effect of making Rifkele and Mankas white nightgowns stand out like a beacon.
Performances are 2:00p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Aug. 28, and 7:30 p.m. Aug. 29.
Tickets are $34 for adults; $32 for students, seniors and military, and $13 for children age 13 and younger.
Civic no longer is requiring proof of vaccination for events. Masking is optional, but encouraged.
For information go to www.civictheatre.com, or call 610-432-8943.