Eric Keitel (Photo by John Strysik, courtesy of Theatre 40)
Reviewed by Madison Mellon
Theatre 40
Through April 30
The history of Nikola Tesla and Thomas Alva Edison is endlessly compelling. Both were titans of American industry whose inventions have shaped the world we live in in countless ways. The feud between them is a fascinating tale of clashing egos and the struggle between idealistic innovation and capitalistic ambition. Power & Light, written by John Strysik and currently receiving its world premiere by Theatre 40, is a serviceable biopic but it struggles to establish a unique angle that would justify retreading the well-explored histories of both of these famous inventors.
The play spans the years 1884 to 1943, beginning when Tesla (Eric Keitel) and Edison (David Stafford) meet, and then tracking both until their deaths. The story centers on the “War of the Currents,” with Tesla championing alternating electrical current while Edison fights for the supremacy of direct current. This conflict highlights the groundbreaking inventions each man was responsible for, as well as the dark side of their feud. The “War of the Currents” was, after all, responsible for the creation of the electric chair.
The show’s ambitious scope is perhaps its greatest stumbling block. Because it endeavors to cover such a large swath of history, it feels more like a cursory overview than an in-depth character study. We catch glimpses of the flaws and complexities of these men – for example, a line about Tesla’s support of eugenics and Edison’s frequent xenophobic remarks. But these elements are presented so matter-of-factly that the play never forms a clear point of view on either of its main characters. At times, it feels as though the audience is being shown the highlights of a Wikipedia article.
The cast is clearly accomplished, although the actors do occasionally struggle with the exposition-heavy material. As Tesla, Keitel is charismatic while also believably conveying Tesla’s neuroticism. Bailey Castle plays Anne Morgan, J.P. Morgan’s daughter and Tesla’s champion, with energy and ambition. It is a shame Anne is relegated to the second act, as the events of the story are often most compelling when viewed through her unique perspective. As Edison, Stafford did have some difficulty navigating the large quantity of dialogue but he brought the requisite gravitas and authority to the role.
The production overall is competent. The projections, designed by Gabrieal Griego, are utilized inventively throughout the show. Director Jeff G. Rack’s previous experience as an art director and EFX artist are evident: he uses clever staging to create striking images of Tesla and Edison with their inventions. Ultimately, though, this show offers little that could not be gleaned from one of the many documentaries made about these historic figures.
Theatre 40, 241 S. Moreno Dr., Beverly Hills. 7:30 pm shows: April 5, 6, 8, 13, 15, 16, 17, 22, 23, 24, 29, 30. 2 pm shows: April 7, 14, 28. www.theatre40.org, Running time 2 hours with a 10 minute intermission.
