A play based on the 1925 Scopes “Monkey Trial”, centered on whether Evolution is a fact to be taught or held as anti-religion untruth, Inherit the Wind has not lost its dramatic currency. As Asolo Rep’s season opener directed by lover-of-musicals Peter Rothstein, it also takes place in an atmosphere of sacred music, not unconfined to questioning what is or is not profane.
In Asolo Rep’s “small town” in “Summer. Not too long ago”, everyone is steamed up over the trial of school teacher Bertram Cates (Mikhail Roberts, expertly meriting sympathy) for teaching Darwin’s scientific theory of evolution. Expert prosecutor Brady (pungent, blustering AndrewLong, like original William Jennings Bryant) knows and accepts only a literal Biblical meaning of Creation.
Representing the original Clarence Darrow as Henry Drummond, Mark Benninghofen labors admirably to insist that only teaching real science is valid and unimpeachable. It’s a pity that his finely constructed arguments and bringing in a host of scientific and philosophic experts (well played by cast members in multiple roles) are mostly summarily dismissed. The pity is shared by reporter E. K. Hornbeck (Sasha Anddreev, who effectively shares what happens at the trial with his following outside the town but cannot change anyone in the town).
Among the complications is Rev. Jeremiah Brown’s literal Biblical devotion (here rendered strongly in well received sermons by black actor Curtis Bannister). His opposition to Darwinian theory sends his daughter into a conflicted state (effectively portrayed by Brielle Rivera Headrington), since she and teacher Cates are in love and have wanted to marry. Further, the trial judge (David Breitbarth, strongly missed Asolo lead in the last few years who’s good to see repeating this smaller role now) is as opinionated as most townies (though there’s going to be a bit of a change).
Perhaps the best overall comment to be made about the play is that it remains current in its concerns (not a good thing per se) but that it stimulates current thinking and opinion about them (a very good thing).
Director Peter Rothstein, new head of Asolo Rep, deserves acclaim for getting excellent performances from his cast and for proving wise in his musical additions.
If there is anything to be adversely criticized, it is the undistinguished set. Not a scenic metaphor in evidence or extractable! The dreary (supposedly?) courthouse background adds nothing to the action or to stimulate the actors. The performance is basically downstage and even extends to a lit-up pit, while the whole upstage only has that neglected background. Without its flags and a few other props, the place could be just about anywhere. All other technical areas are handled appropriately.
Even those who’ve seen Inherit the Wind before on a stage or in the acclaimed movie should not be disappointed by the up-to-date version at Asolo Rep to begin its 2024 season.
