Goodman Theatre presents the Chicago Premiere of VENUS IN FUR.
This is a play about a play about a book. In 1869, Author Leopold von Sacher-Masoch penned a novella of erotica. His controversial writings about sexual domination resulted in a new word. Masochism, used to describe finding sexual pleasure from pain or humiliation, is derived from the author’s last name. Playwright David Ives cleverly creates a play about the sexual politics of an audition for a play based on Sacher-Masosch’s story. An actress arrives late to audition for the lead. The director/playwright’s annoyance dissipates as the actress masterfully captivates him. The play about a play about a book becomes a tussle for supremacy between a director and an actress, a man and a woman, a slave and a dominatrix. The brilliance of Ives’ writing is these roles continually switch throughout the play’s duration.
Under the skillful direction of Joanie Schultz, Amanda Drinkall (Vanda) and Rufus Collins (Tom) excel at role playing. Drinkall, in particular, makes a seamless transition from scatty actress to sophisticated seductress. The outstanding Drinkall flips back and forth with vocal and physical distinction. Her quick changeover delivers the extra oomph for perfect comedic timing. Drinkall dominates the stage. And Collins reacts. Collins’ descent into humiliation is humorous and daunting. Collins visibly grapples with the desire to control or be controlled. At one point, he lustfully peels off Drinkall’s stockings. Later, he impulsively dons a fur. The blurring of designated societal, gender and sexual roles keeps the action pulsating. This romp is definitely titillating.
VENUS IN FUR was enthusiastically received at Goodman’s opening last night. The audience was a composite of regular theatre goers and industry folks. The audition-styled plot might be less interesting for the general public. The humor has an insider’s bent. The tone and look of the play might be perceived unfinished. I even thought this would play better in Goodman’s smaller theatre. Some of the intimacy of a moment gets lost in the bigness of The Albert. At the beginning, I had trouble even hearing the actors.
Still, VENUS IN FUR is a wickedly pleasurable flirtation.
Running Time: One hour and forty minutes with no intermission
At Goodman Theatre, 170 N. Dearborn
Based on the 1869 novella by Leopold von Sacher-Masoch
Written by David Ives
Directed by Joanie Schultz
Wednesdays, Thursdays, Sundays at 7:30pm
Fridays and Saturdays at 8pm
Thursdays and Sundays at 2pm
Thru April 13th
Buy Tickets at www.goodmantheatre.org
Production photo by Liz Lauren