Pericles
Reviewed by Nikki Munoz
Independent Shakespeare Co.
Through August 30
RECOMMENDED
One of Shakespeare’s lesser known and less frequently produced plays, Pericles: Prince of Tyre, is neither comedic nor tragic but has elements of both. The plot spans decades and generations and involves numerous characters. It’s a hard play to pull off, but Independent Shakespeare Co. does so successfully in their current production in Griffith Park.
The story follows the titular character (Gysai Silas) as he flees Antioch after figuring out that the king is having an incestuous relationship with his daughter. He crosses land and sea to Pentopolis, where he meets his future wife, Thaisa (Aisha Kabia). Fast forward 20 years: Pericles now believes that Thaisa has died and that their daughter, Marina (Carene Rose Mekertichyan), from whom he has been separated, has been thrust into the seedy world of prostitution.
One of this production’s biggest strengths is director Melissa Chalsma’s decision to stay traditional. The emphasis is on the dialogue, while the set (Caitlin Lainoff) is minimal and the blocking straightforward. The production is set in the time period for which it is written. There is some occasional ad-libbing and the addition of more modern music (Jamir Munoz), but these embellishments are both subtle and effective, and liven up the proceedings without straying far from the material’s classic roots. The production is respectful of the text while still having fun with it.
It’s also strengthened by the ensemble. Silas shines as a strong and commanding Pericles but does not overpower the rest of the cast. Kabia brings a graciousness and humility to Thaisa. Marina doesn’t come into the plot until later, but Mekertichyan makes good use of her time onstage with her firm yet gentle portrayal. Indeed, each performer brings a striking and vibrant humanness to roles that can often come off as stiff when played by actors who fail to grasp the intricacy of Shakespeare’s work.
Under Chalsma’s direction, the production is an example of how arresting Shakespeare can be when handled carefully and skillfully. The show is filled with bursting-with-life characters who drive a compelling plot forward.
Old Los Angeles Zoo (near the Merry-Go-Round), 4730 Crystal Springs Dr., Griffith Park; Wed.-Sat., 7 p.m.; through Aug. 30. https://www.iscla.org/festival-2019. Running time: approximately two hours and 30 minutes with an intermission.
