Peter Shaffer’s play, Amadeus, explores the most crippling fear of any artist: the fear of mediocrity. When a person cares to share an art––an expression of his humanity––he does so in hopes of doing justice to his passion. Anything less is failure.
The cast and crew of Amadeus, led by director Jason Yarn (CAS ‘01), should be proud of themselves. In a mere two weeks, they have pulled together a show that is better than “mediocre.” With its third production of its 149th season, the Mask and Bauble Dramatic Society presents a high-energy, thought-provoking and thoroughly enjoyable show.
Shaffer explores the theme of artistic mediocrity through the eyes of Italian musician Antonio Salieri, a man painfully aware of his own inability to produce brilliant art. In his battle with the God he blames for his shortcomings, Salieri ruins the life of a truly gifted musical genius, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Salieri cannot bear the thought of being second to the vulgar, child-like Mozart. Since he cannot ruin Mozart’s talent, Salieri indulges in a string of attacks on his rival’s career, wife and eventually, his health.
First-year Gregg Deehan (SFS ‘04) plays the part of Salieri. Costumed in red, he looks like a devil. Deehan is fantastic with his character. His apparent comfort in the role and meticulous timing produce the chilling effect demanded by a character such as Salieri. Deehan’s eyes are his best feature. Their intensity somehow leaves the audience both menaced by a ruthless villain and sympathetic for a man heart-broken by a shattered dream. They pierce the audience, yet beg for compassion.
In the other leading part, Brian Soja (CAS ‘03), as the legendary Mozart, has fun with the role; his ridiculous giggle invites the audience to laugh with him. His Mozart is playful and crass, but the more serious moments are performed with depth and feeling. Soja’s portrayal of a frustrated Mozart unable to find work or care for his family is heart-wrenching.
Deehan and Soja are supported by a strong cast of talented actors. Kristen Berg (CAS ‘01), who plays extremes very well, takes the role of Constanze Weber, Mozart’s wife; when her character is angry, she is very angry. Mike Slaby (CAS ‘04) is an absolute riot as the flighty Emperor Joseph II and Diana Cherkas (MSB ‘03) and Christa Guidi (CAS ‘01) are delightfully wicked as the Venticelli. These two characters particularly stand out, lending a surreal element to Amadeus. It is difficult to tell when they are actually involved in the events around them and when they exist only in Salieri’s mind. The sexually- charged vixens slither through the plot, stirring up trouble wherever they can.
One of the most impressive features of Amadeus is the set. Designed by Steve Esposito, it evokes the grandeur of the 18th century palace where the bulk of the play takes place. The set construction is even more impressive when one considers that it was built in less than two weeks.
Mask and Bauble has put on a wonderful production. Whether you like to laugh, cry or ponder life, Amadeus will suit your mood. Go see this play and give Amadeus the sold-out crowd it deserves.
Amadeus will be playing tonight (Thursday) and tomorrow night (Friday) at 8:00 p.m. in Poulton Hall.
