The Man from Earth

The Man from Earth was adapted into a play by the director of the film of the same name. A bit of a cult classic, the film is considered by some to be one of the world’s best science fiction movies. Using no special effects, both film and play contemplate some of life’s questions, which lie at the centre of science fiction.

When History Professor John Oldman announces his sudden departure, colleagues gather for an impromptu farewell gathering, when a throwaway comment about John’s never seeming to age leads to a revelation by John that he is really a Cro-Magnon man who has never aged beyond 35.

With experts from a range of academic disciplines this is debated, as a possibility, but is John mad or could he actually be telling the truth?

Jacob Lane, enigmatic, intelligent, and charming as John Oldman, is excellent in the central role, and a fine anchor for this show, mixing complexity with a mild embarrassment and reticence, which works well.

His colleagues really feel like a collection of academics. Shivas Lindsay as Anthropology Professor Dan, his natural Irish accent perfect for the role, is perhaps the most vocal and speaks with authority and nuance.

Lis Hoffman, as Art History Professor and fundamentalist Christian Edith, feels committed to the role and is very convincing. Jason Dohle, picture perfect as Harry, a Biology Professor, speaks with authority and credence.

Sharon Menzies is excellent and forthright as Archaeology Professor, Art, usually played by a man, who brings her young girlfriend Linda, beautifully played by Alexandra D’Ulisse with cognisance and depth.

Sandy, played by Amanda Watson, is in love with John – and this feels tangible and sincere. 

Last to join the party is Professor of Psychology Gruber, played with authority and vulnerability by Peter Neaves, in a stunning performance.

Stage Manager Neale Patterson completes the cast in a supporting role.

Virginia Moore-Price sets the play in John’s room, which is clearly in a tower of a university building. The rear wall is dominated by a stained-glass panel designed by Beth Grant, with walls of paintings that are mandala like, reflecting both the circular themes and Buddhist and Sanskrit meditation.

A top-notch play, thoughtfully directed and expertly acted, The Man from Earth leaves its audience thinking.

Kimberley Shaw