Irish Repertory Theatre Stages The Hairy Ape in New York
The Irish Repertory Theatre is staging Eugene O’Neill’s 1922 expressionistic drama The Hairy Ape on its New York mainstage, timeout.com reported. The production features Jon Beavers as the brash ocean-liner stoker Yank, navigating a tiered society that treats him as unskilled labor.
Cast and Creative Team Behind the Production
Jon Beavers stars as Yank alongside Elizabeth Teeter as the privileged debutante Mildred, who triggers the stoker’s rage after a visit to the ship’s boiler room. Joanna Glushak plays Mildred’s snappish chaperone, while John Keating portrays Yank’s fellow crewman, Paddy. Ariyan Kassam appears as a socialist shipmate, and Adam Petherbridge plays an International Workers of the World functionary. Ciarán O’Reilly directs the production, with set design by Charlie Corcoran.
Production Challenges on the Irish Rep Mainstage
Set designer Charlie Corcoran has adapted the Irish Rep’s tiny mainstage to fit the play’s distinct settings. Director Ciarán O’Reilly struggles to handle the lurches in mood that accompany these shifts in locale, according to timeout.com. While moments like Paddy’s early rhapsody shine, the production moves toward its conclusion through O’Neill’s lengthy soliloquies.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Hairy Ape Revival
Who wrote The Hairy Ape and when was it written?
Eugene O’Neill wrote the expressionistic play in 1922.
Who plays the lead role of Yank in this production?
Jon Beavers portrays the ocean-liner stoker Yank in the Irish Repertory Theatre staging.
What triggers Yank’s downward spiral in the play?
Yank seeks revenge after wealthy debutante Mildred visits the ship’s boiler room and calls him a filthy beast before swooning.