One universal truth held by writers is that their words are almost sacred.
It’s difficult to stress and slave over written work only to have it chopped, changed and savaged. But anyone who has experienced the written word without at least a cursory editing truly appreciates that fine writing is the result of a partnership between a writer and editor.
“King of the Jews,” adapted to the stage by veteran writer Leslie Epstein — who wrote the novel by the same name — has all the ingredients needed for a heart-wrenching and powerful story.
Anyone who has studied the atrocities of the Nazi oppression of the Jews can’t help but internally sob over the mental and physical brutality endured. Those Jews who were called upon to collaborate with their oppressors are truly those who have experienced a “dark night of the soul” that the common man can hardly comprehend.
And so we have the groundwork for a production that has many positives but can’t move beyond the writers’ attempt to cram too much into one production. I couldn’t help but wish an editor had helped Epstein release some of what was surely brilliant writing in his novel and let the characters fully develop so the story could be brought to life on the stage. To use a tried cliché, less is more in this case.
That’s not to say there isn’t plenty to like in this production. The acting — especially by David Little, who portrays the smart, savvy and power-hungry Jew Trumpleman — is first-rate. The actors are so exceptional, in fact, that to single anyone out is unfair because all the actors worked hard to breathe life and texture into their characters no doubt thanks to close collaborations with Director Cheryl Faraone.
And that, of course, is the problem. While everyone else seems to understand the trauma of the times, the writing just doesn’t do it justice. We’re given no real reason to care about these characters or explore their inner turmoil as they fight for survival against their Nazi oppressors, their Jewish contemporaries, and, of course, themselves.
What a shame. If ever there were a story that begged for an editor’s red pen, this is it.
In fairness to Epstein, I must echo another critic who recently wrote about the limitations of a play versus a novel. Obviously, time constraints are paramount, wrote Tim Trainor of DCTheatreWeek.com.
That’s so true. But in a play that lasts close to three hours, we expect a lot more. When you compare this production with so many others currently on local stages, you truly see the flab in this play.
The acting is first-rate, the period costumes ideal and the bistro set exceptional. And Epstein is no neophyte playwright. He’s a well-established writer with dozens of works to his credit and Ivy League credentials. He should know better. His cast and audience deserve better.
If You Go
‘King of the Jews’
Where: Olney Theatre Center, Mulitz-Gudelsky Theatre Lab, 2001 Olney-Sandy Spring Road, Olney
When: Through April 12
Details: $26 to $49; 301-924-3400
