Strawdog Theatre presents the World Premiere of Philip Dawkins’ MISS MARX: OR THE INVOLUNTARY SIDE EFFECT OF LIVING.
Eleanor is a socialist, an actress and an intellectual. She is a modern woman. She speaks seven different languages. And has even been contracted to translate, among other things, Gustave Flaubert‘s Madame Bovary and the plays of Henrik Ibsen. She is the daughter of Karl Marx. She has devoted her life to advancing her father’s teachings. She is an ardent believer in her philosophical truths. When her metaphysical world collides with her actual life, she questions her very existence.
Playwright Philip Dawkins imagines the real life of Eleanor Marx. This innovative biography masterfully intertwines Ibsen’s “The Dollhouse,” Marxism and an all-consuming love into Marx’s persona (played with distinction by Dana Black). In Dawkins‘ intellectual and emotional tug of war, Black impressively goes from confident rebel rouser to emotionless resignation. Her journey there is riveting.
Under the skillful direction of Megan Shuchman, the socialist platform is anything but politics as usual. The play has both dramatic and provocative elements. And on top of those, Dawkins adds a solid layer of unconventional humor. The charming Benjamin Sprunger (Freddy) has his son (played by a rambunctious Justine Turner) read a loud from Marx’s translation of “Madame Bovary.” The child’s struggle reading words in the steamy passage is hilarious. In her other role as Laura, a dejected Turner describes her mundane life but works in an amusing zinger about her husband. In one of my favorite scenes, the animated Sarah Goeden (Eva) rattles off nonsensical musings to wacky heights. Goeden’s comedy timing is perfection.
Despite all the funny moments, Shuchman ensures the play stays anchored in the dark waters of self actualization. The show is never reduced to just a romantic comedy. Black and John Ferrick (Edward) are initially playful in their flirtations. Later, the unapologetic Ferrick effectively swings the other way. An erotic scene turns sadistic with Ferrick’s smooth moves.
Throughout the show, Shuchman overlaps scenes for a clashing of worlds. We see a statuesque Black contemplating her life purpose. Meanwhile, Sprunger and Turner cross the stage with high-spirited shenanigans. The terrific ensemble showcase Black’s implosion with a genuine normalcy of life.
MISS MARX: OR THE INVOLUNTARY SIDE EFFECT OF LIVING is a fantastic history lesson. The thought-provoking show is riddled with humor. During intermission and post show, I read more about Eleanor Marx. Dawkins has written an extraordinary tribute to a woman’s descent into truth.
Running Time: Two hours and twenty minutes includes an intermission
At Strawdog Theatre, 3829 N. Broadway
Written by Philip Dawkins
Directed by Megan Shuchman
Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays at 8pm
Sundays at 4pm
Thru March 29th
Buy Tickets at www.strawdog.org
Photo by Chris Ocken