It is an unusual script by Lauren Gunderson — both modern and historic — scary and somewhat true? At least based on true events and people — with a few points to make about the world today? There’s a lot in this script, and as Director Tom Ferris says in his note, “I hope you have as much fun finding the ‘message’ for yourself as we all had bringing this story to you.”
I had never heard of playwright and feminist Olympe De Gouges, but she deserves a Google! The electric Shannon Bowen brings a wide range of emotions and humor to this frustrated and inspired feminist creative force. I loved the theatre/playwright humor. The versatile and ubiquitous Rachel Daugherty (who must have made a deal with the devil to be in almost every play at Riverwalk since she first wowed us in A Doll’s House) is both sweet and vicious as the assassin Charlotte Corday. (Marat Sade, anyone?) Erin Hoffman is the show’s darling diva, a glamorous, hilarious, misunderstood Marie Antoinette. Newcomer Asia Dixon earns her equal billing with these star ladies as the earnest Marianne Angelle, a composite of real historic women fighting for an end to French slavery in the Caribbean. She’s probably the most sensible of the bunch.
The costumes (Ashley Hampton) evoke the historic period, with special glam for Queen Marie. The set (Tom Ferris) is simple but effective, with elegant arches that serve as second stages for outside events. Kudos to Adam Carlson, Ric Sadler, Danny Ferris and Caleb Liggett for a “special effect” that adds drama to Act II.
This show is not for everyone, with “mature themes, language and violence” — but also lot of “Liberté, Egalité, Sororité and Hilarité”. It continues through June 20. Tickets at riverwalktheatre.com or call 517-482-5700.