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Cast, crew, director create incredible ‘Elephant Man’ at Y’town Playhouse SFlb
By Eric McCrea
The Youngstown Playhouse’s latest production, “The Elephant Man,” opened Friday night with a well- prepared cast and an artistic take on drama.
This play, written by Bernard Pomerance, follows the later part of the life of John Merrick, played by Johnny Pecano. Merrick grew up in industrial Victorian England, plagued by a condition that defied medical science. He found work being viewed by the public, even touring in Europe, before being robbed and abandoned.
Home in London, he found safety in the company of Dr. Frederick Treves (James McClellan) and eventually a permanent home.
Word of Merrick’s condition elicits donations and visits from London’s elite, which broadens his circle of friends, and exposes him to the gentler side of life.
The script borders on being dry at times, but director Matthew Mazuroski made this historical drama quite interesting. Accents amongst the cast varied appropriately and were accurately maintained. The stage was often bare or sparsely decorated, with a large versatile curtain dominating the stage, leaving the focus on the actors. The set utilized a turntable, which made scene changes subtle and Mazuroski’s blocking worked well with the dynamic stage.
Pecano was incredible as John Merrick. His dedication to the physical requirements of the role was unwavering. This play does not rely on makeup to make Pecano appear like Merrick, but his appearance was striking nonetheless. Hairless, pale, Pecano looked almost clinical, emphasizing the idea of Merrick as a specimen.
James McClellan did a remarkable job as the protective and empathetic surgeon. As the seriousness of his ward’s condition sets in, McClellan’s demeanor softly changes from confidence to despair. His battle with society is external but very internalized.
Jackie Stevens was delightful as Mrs. Kendal, an actress who befriends Merrick and teaches him the less-academic parts of life. She had a persona that would have been considered bawdy in the Victorian Age, but today it came off as slightly spunky.
Molly Galano and Candace DiLullo played more than one role each, ranging from tent performers to aristocrats.
John Cox was featured as Treves confidant and colleague Dr. Carr-Gomm, but his talent was aptly used elsewhere as well. Not to be outdone, Paul Dahman and Donald Connors played five roles between them.
Lighting, designed by Ellen Licitra, made use of footlights to create a tableau vivant before each scene. A cool, foggy palette evoked the streets of Victorian London, but gave way to bright gem tones for the more creative scenes.
Costumes designed by Wendy Akers included some very elaborate and boldly colored dresses and a suit for Merrick that looked appropriately ill-fitting.
Overall, opening night was nearly flawless. Mazuroski and his incredible cast took advantage of every opportunity to be creative and it paid off in a major way.
“The Elephant Man” can be seen at The Youngstown Playhouse Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and today and March 17 at 2:30 p.m. For reservations, call 330-788-8739.