NEW YORK—The question of science versus religion takes center stage in this somewhat lackluster Broadway revival of Jerome Lawrence and Robert E. Lee's 1955 drama "Inherit the Wind"—but thanks to some very strong performances by Brian Dennehy and Christopher Plummer in the lead roles, the show is definitely worth seeing.
Based on the 1925 "Scopes Monkey Trial," the story takes place in "a small town, not too long ago," according to the program notes, where schoolteacher Bert Cates (Benjamin Walker) has been arrested for teaching Charles Darwin's theory of evolution—something which is against the law in the state.
When the story becomes a major media event, two larger-than-life figures are brought in to try the case. Prosecutor Matthew Harrison Brady (Dennehy), a three-time presidential candidate and firm believer in all things biblical; and defense attorney Henry Drummond (Plummer), an avowed atheist with a deep aversion to any kind of conformity.
Dennehy, with the more unsympathetic role, nicely brings a bit of humanity to someone who, in the wrong hands, could be little more than a caricature. Plummer meanwhile, is nothing short of brilliant, essentially fusing with the character of Drummond; a man who cares passionately for the rights of the individual. Interestingly, the most powerful scene between the two comes not in the courtroom, but in a quiet, reflective moment when they talk about how their lives have changed over the years.
Unfortunately the production falters seriously elsewhere. Too little time is devoted to Cates and his girlfriend Rachel (Maggie Lacey), the daughter of the Reverend Jeremiah Brown (Byron Jennings). Additionally, the role of cynical reporter E.K. Hornbeck (Denis O'Hare), is played way over the top, with Hare (and director Doug Hughes) either trying for laughs where none are to be had or seeking to hammer home a point when a gentle tap would work better.
The text itself also comes off as somewhat weak, with a serious lack of character development; though Beth Fowler as Brady's wife is quite good. Santo Loquasto's set offers a nice touch, but doesn't really do anything special, while his costumes and Brian MacDevitt's lighting work well.
Also in the cast are Conor Donovan, Amanda Sprecher, Charlotte Maier, Henry Stram, Andrew Weems, Jay Patterson, Bill Buell, Anne Bowles, Pippa Pearthree, Bill Christ, Lanny Flaherty, Matthew Nardozzi, Jeff Steitzer, Terry Beaver, Randall Newsome, Jordan Lage, Erik Steele, Carson Church, Katie Klaus, Steve Brady, Kit Flanagan, Sherman Howard, Philip LeStrange, Kevin C. Loomis, Mary Kate Law, and David M. Lutken.
Inherit the Wind
Lyceum Theatre
149 West 45th Street
Tickets: 212-239-6200, 800-432-7250 or www.telecharge.com
Closes: July 8, 2007
Judd Hollander is the New York correspondent for the London publication The Stage.
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