'Temptation' is the most entertaining bargain in town
By: Doug Krentzlin
Special to The Examiner
October 16, 2008
WASHINGTON — Constellation Theatre, the most exciting new theatrical troupe of last year, is back and better than ever. Their first production of the season, the U.S. premiere of former Czech President Vaclav Havel’s 1985 play “Temptation,” is the best show they’ve done to date.
Written after serving four years in prison for his opposition to Czechoslovakia’s Communist government, “Temptation” is Havel’s dark, satirical take on the legend of Faust. The setting, an oppressive scientific institute that constantly monitors its employees for any sign of independent thoughts or actions, is a fairly obvious caricature of the Communist regime that Havel helped end.
The protagonist, Dr. Foustka (Nick DePinto), has begun dabbling in black magic and Satanic worship. His expressed motivations for his research constantly shift depending on whether he is explaining himself to Fistula (Frank Britton), an enigmatic messenger who may be a minion of the Devil or even Satan himself, or to the Director of the Institute (Jesse Terrill), who has been informed of Foustka’s activities. It soon becomes clear that Foustka, in an attempt to have everything he wants and save his own hide at the same time, is playing both ends against the middle.
What prevents “Temptation” from being heavy-handed is Havel’s mordant and outright laugh-out-loud humor, particularly the characterizations of Foustka’s co-workers (wonderfully played by Ashley Ivey, Katie Atkinson, John Tweel, Ron Ward, Gwen Grastorf and Heather Haney), a bunch of fawning sycophants whose allegiances are every bit as mercurial and self-serving as those of Foustka himself.
Allison Arkell Stockman’s direction has become increasingly assured with each Constellation production. Her staging of “Temptation,” with the indispensable aid of A.J. Guban’s lighting and futuristic set, Yvette M. Ryan’s costumes and Giselle Alvarez’s choreography (dancing is a major motif in the play), makes this a visual marvel to behold. It is also a joy to listen to as well, thanks to Brendon Vierra’s sound designs and Tom Teasley’s original music score.
With tickets at $20 or less, Constellation’s “Temptation” is both the best bargain and the most entertaining new show in town.
If you go
Constellation Theatre Company’s production of “Temptation” runs through Nov. 9
Venue: Source Theatre, 1835 14th St. NW, Washington
Performances: 8 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, 3 p.m. Sunday
Tickets: $15 to $20
More info: 202-204-7741 or www.constellationtheatre.org
