Rep Stage presents the regional premiere of Or, a farcical comedy based on the life of the first professional female playwright in England (and, strangely enough, spy) Aphra Behn, written by Liz Duffy Adams and directed by Michael Stebbins.
Jason Odell Williams as King Charles II and Charlotte Cohn as Aphra Behn in OR, by Liz Duffy Adams - directed by Michael Stebbins. Photo by Stan Barouh.
An intricately detailed set designed by James Fouchard shows an opulent boarding room, complete with a chandelier and velvet drapes. Two silhouettes of Aphra Behn are sketched into the back wall – a traditional one and also a cheeky version that depicts her with a moustache. This proves to be fitting, as we are told in a quick introduction that Or, strives to both divide and link opposite natures, saying “We all embody opposites within, or else we’re frankly too dull to live.”
In this play, the English period of 1660s is interestingly compared to our own 1960s, as the fall of the Puritan reign gave way to a somewhat hippie atmosphere, where free love was embraced culturally, and women were finally allowed to write and act in the theatre. This comparison is seen in every aspect of the play, from a hippy floral design faintly painted onto the furniture – to psychedelic, colorful prints hinting through the otherwise era-appropriate costumes, cleverly designed by Melanie Clark.
The Sound Design by Ann Warren is successful in representing both of these eras as well, from creaking doors and footsteps to The Beatles and Barry White melodies snuck into kissing scenes. Lighting Designer Terry Cobb rounds out the atmosphere with soft sunlight and precise spotlights. While the play is effectively set in the restoration period of London, the subtle shadows and suggestions of our own 1960s makes for an interesting comparison without being overwhelming.
We begin with Aphra Behn, brilliantly played by Charlotte Cohn, writing in her debtor’s jail cell. From the beginning we see that writing is her core passion, as she earnestly asks her jailor for more ink so that she can finish a letter. When a masked visitor reveals himself as King Charles II, played by Jason Odell Williams, and pays off her debts, Aphra is placed in a lavish boarding room and soon becomes a prolific dramatist. She meets and falls in love with actress Nell Gwynne, energetically played by Christine Demuth, and her life seems to be going perfectly…until she gets a visit from William Scott, a flame from her old days as a spy that she believed was dead. He brings with him some disturbing news.
Director Stebbins receives wonderful performances from his three actors. Christine Demuth and Jason Odell Williams, who take on multiple roles – are fantastic and make each one distinct and entertaining. Christine Demuth pulls off a raunchy, foul-mouthed jailor, the enthusiastic Nell Gwynne, and also a shrewd, hobbling old maid named Maria. Jason Odell Williams switches seamlessly from the regal King Charles II to the crass, cockney accented William Scott. Also, his hilarious and harried turn as Lady Davenant proves to be a crowd favorite, as he exits the stage amongst cheers and claps from the audience. The multiple roles are impressive, ambitious, and extremely fun to watch.
This farcical plot is fun and sassy, filled with misunderstandings, mistaken identities, and even mistaken genders. With clever writing and terrific acting, Or yields an excellent night of entertainment.
Running time is one hour and thirty minutes, without an intermission.
Or plays through September 18th at Rep Stage at Howard Community College’s The Horowitz Center’s Studio Theatre – 10901 Little Patuxent Parkway, in Columbia, MD. Purchase tickets by calling the box office (443) 518-1500, or by ordering them online.
Watch a preview video here.
