Mamet’s ‘Oleanna’ @ The Classics Theatre Project
Photos by Kate Voskova
—Rickey D. Wax
If you are looking for the perfect show this weekend to spark conversation and buzz, look no further: The Classics Theatre Project’s current production is one of the most riveting dramas in theater, David Mamet’s Oleanna. TCTP is known for fine interpretations of timeless classics, and they continue to prove their brilliance by taking on this challenging 1992 work.
Oleanna is an intense and enigmatic play that delves deep into the complexities of power, gender identity, and the pitfalls of political correctness in an academic setting. Set in a single location, a professor’s office, the show unfolds over two acts (run time is one hour, 45 minutes), with each scene more gripping than the last. Additionally, themes of sexual harassment and abuse of power are explored throughout the show. A highly charged battle of the sexes only intensifies as misunderstanding and manipulation take center stage between a professor and one of his female students.
The plot centers on university professor John (Robert San Juan), and his student Carol (Devon Rose). What begins as a seemingly straightforward meeting about Carol’s grades quickly spirals into a tense confrontation that questions the nature of truth, authority, and victimhood. In the wake of battles surrounding many issues, including the #metoo movement and “woke” culture, this play seems more prescient than ever.
Mamet’s dialogue is sharp, capturing both the essence of miscommunication and the ambiguity of intention. The play can be polarizing and the escalating conflict at times is infuriating. The dialogue’s rapid- fire, overlapping style, a trademark of Mamet (Glengarry Glen Ross), requires careful attention. Performances are crucial: the play is dependent on nuanced dialogue and shifting power dynamics, and each actor meets the challenge with ease.
San Juan exudes a blend of arrogance, frustration, and vulnerability. He conveys this through tone and physical movement. When John is the laid-back professor with no care in the world, his voice is very musical; he leans back and keeps his body language open. However, when his haughtiness starts to get the best of him, he begins to take up more space and presence on the stage, as he struts around in a cocksure manner.
Rose beautifully navigates Carol’s transformation from a confused student to an assertive accuser, which is essential for the play’s impact. In the beginning, she is very reserved, jotting down copious notes while her professor mansplains his lecture. She is fidgety and plays with her sleeves in a childlike way. As she begins to come into power, her face is no longer nestled into her notes; her hands are at her side. Her tone goes from church-mouse quiet to clamorous and unrestrained.
Brilliantly directed by April Miller, the chemistry and tension keep the audience on edge, questioning their own biases and perceptions. This constant tango between the two characters will keep you asking, who is leading this dance?
The Stone Cottage is an intimate theater, and the set is in the middle of the audience. It’s simple, with a desk, an office chair, a bookcase, and a small chaise that resembles a casting couch. The lights are warm and do not change, which provides a sense of full transparency to the audience.
Oleanna shines in its ability to provoke thought and discussion long after the play is over. A violent attack occurs in the show—and the audience continued their whispers of disbelief and anger even as as they walked out to their vehicles. Mamet does not offer easy answers; instead, he presents a scenario where both characters are equally flawed but emotionally grounded in their principles—leaving the audience to grapple with their own varied interpretations. This gray area is what gives the play its strength, as it mirrors real-life situations where clarity is often elusive.
The Classics Theatre Project has crafted a masterclass in tension and ambiguity, offering a complex and unsettling look at the dynamics of power and the nature of truth. More than 30 years on, Oleanna remains a strong and relevant piece of theatre. It is essential viewing, its compelling dialogue making it a must-see for those who appreciate theatre that engages the mind and the heart.
WHEN: May 17-June 17, 2024
WHERE: The Stone Cottage, 15650 Addison Rd, Addison TX
WEB: theclassicstheatreproject.com
