The National Theatre continues its live streams with a co-production of the Young Vic of Tennessee Williams’ classic play. Continue to read to see thoughts on the play, but don’t expect an A-Level style analysis though!
The play takes place in a small motel in New Orleans, Louisiana. English teacher Blanche DuBois (played by Gillian Anderson) arrives from Mississippi to see her sister Stella and with her Polish (although he considers himself American) husband Stanley, who are both expecting a baby. Although the sisters are glad to see each other, Stan is suspicious of Blanche and her true intentions. The play takes place over an entire summer.
The set designed by Magda Willis is basically a rotating skeletal motel mostly consisting of Stella and Stan’s room. Of the actors involved, the best two are Gillian Anderson as Blanche, who plays the pretend French rich seductress who slowly breaks down into sadness.
As well as this, Ben Foster’s no nonsense and sometimes aggressive (especially when he gets drunk) performance as Stan, who I see myself siding with at some points especially when he calls Blanche out on her shit.
The American mood is consistent throughout the play by the use of music which starts with the Blues and later transitions into Rock as Blanche’s so called “magic” disappears. The show takes a more contemporary approach demonstrated through the costumes – designed by Victoria Behr. This is best seen on characters such as Stella, Stan and Mitch (one of Stan’s friends who Blanche tries hitting on). Blanche’s costumes however are slightly fancier (seemingly).
The play also takes a more intelligent role when it comes to men, showing that in this time they had all the power, adding to Blanche’s desperation. The lighting has some interesting moments, such as when it reflects off Blanche’s mirror or when the UV lights come on during one of the transitions.
Ultimately, this was definitely one of the best shows so far. This really serves look into street level America, and the irrelevance some of the upper classes flaunt (maybe a reason why this play is still popular even in recent times). A show I would recommend checking out.
By Stuart McComb
Feature image: Youtube