TAPS capstone ‘Glengarry Glen Ross’ sparks thought

Nov. 11, 2015, 8:10 p.m.

Tensions run high in “Glengarry Glen Ross,” a TAPS Capstone project for seniors Elizabeth Knarr, Analyssa Lopez and Louis McWilliams. The intense play by David Mamet includes a cast of eight men who all fearlessly attack their cutthroat characters. Set in the intimate black box Nitery Theater, the simplicity of the production allows the talent of the TAPS department to shine.

The play tells the story of the intense real estate business — a group of salesmen are set against each other when they are not making enough deals. The whole cast is almost equally highlighted throughout the show, though Austin Caldwell (Levene) is a stand-out as his reactions to other actors are phenomenally believable and the emotional attachment to his character is apparent through the desperate stammer in his voice. Another knockout performance comes from Louis McWilliams (Roma), whose slimy personality onstage comes across at every point of the show — the way he walks with swagger, talks with melody, and fiercely snaps when needed illustrates his character’s false trust. McWilliams is actively engaged in listening and responding to other actors onstage at all times. Kevin Heller (Moss) also impresses with a capturing onstage presence and deep, clear vocal tone. His seemingly genuine, credible personality makes his character’s subtle threats to others unforeseen and intriguing.

Other production aspects are simple, yet effective (the performance is being presented in repertory with “Top Girls” so the set must be easily transformable). The lighting, costumes, and props are uncomplicated and suit the story well with an ’80s tone. Popular music from this decade fills blackouts and serves well as light-hearted breaks from harsh themes in scenes. Elizabeth Knarr’s directing focuses on the language of the playwright in Act One. Though the actors remain fairly static in this act, the audience is enthralled with their confidential conversations. Act Two shows Miss Knarr’s directing eye more effectively as the staging is always changing in a visually appealing ways, with the actors constantly entering and storming out of the scenes with passion. She also takes advantage of the audience door of the Nitery Theater, using the space productively and bringing the audience more into the show.

With both subtle twists and shocking surprises throughout, “Glengarry Glen Ross” causes the audience to challenge the morality of the workplace and the dichotomies between business versus friendship, competition versus comfort, and lies versus trust. Especially relevant in the competitive business hub that is the Silicon Valley, “Glengarry Glen Ross” effectively raises the question of whether money is worth sacrificing personal values. A wonderful representation of the TAPS department’s talent, “Glengarry Glen Ross” is a thought-provoking thrill.

“Glengarry Glen Ross” plays November 11th-14th at Nitery Theater. For tickets, visit taps.stanford.edu.

 

Contact Bella Wilcox at belwilc ‘at’ stanford.edu.

Bella Wilcox is a senior studying Communication and Theater and Performance Studies. She is a writer for Stanford Journalism's Peninsula Press and her poetry will be featured in the upcoming edition of the Stanford Journal of Asian American Studies. Her original play will premiere on campus this spring. Bella is a freelance DJ and concert planner.

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