The Elephant Man

The Hobart Repertory Theatre Societyproduction of The Elephant Man is a show to see with a mind cleansed of movie references, including special effects, so you can concentrate on the acting, language and intent of the clever play. Bernard Pomerance wrote this haunting drama based on the real life of Joseph Merrick (called John in the play), a hideously deformed man who was rescued from a dreadful life as a circus freak.

Director Petr Divis followed the author’s directorial notes, not to try to attempt to reproduce the physical appearance of Merrick. Special effects makeup was eschewed, leaving the actors to tell the story, and act. Act they did. Jon Lenthall was riveting as Merrick. From the very first moment on stage, as Dr Frederick Treves (Steven Jones) explained the medical case to colleagues, Jon Lenthall became the deformed creature so scientifically described, and maintained the character convincingly throughout.

With the use of projected images - real photographs of Merrick, and text in large graphics in an elegant font, suggestive of the Victorian era – we received enough background to know what was unfolding before us, without our attention being taken away from the acting. Music, lighting and sets were discreet and necessary components, adding everything required to highlight the performances without intruding.

Steven Jones as Treves was measured and mannered: he maintained the air of the scientist who is learning to question his beliefs and understanding of life, with moments of uncertainty and compassion that were gentle, wry and sometimes ironic.  Mark Morgan (Ross, Merrick’s   freak show manager) managed to make us feel sympathy for a villainous character. Leah Venatacci gave a sensitive, spirited performance (Mrs Kendal), highlighting the impossible loneliness of Merrick. Philip Crouch turned in good performances in three roles.

The themes of difference and normality, kindness and tolerance, compassion and acceptance, set against the backdrop of social mores and manners of more than a century ago, still have relevance today. “There but for the grace of god” as mentioned in a speech by Treves was an underlying aspect of the play.

To say that this was a powerful show is an understatement. Lenthall was truly wonderful in this, the largest role I have ever seen him in. A wonderful cast and a wonderful play! Well done.

Merlene Abbott

Images: Leah Venettacci, Jon Lenthall and Steven Jones, & Steven Jones and Jon Lenthall.