By Katherine Beeson
In “The Totalitarians,” presented by The Constructivists at Interchange Theater Co-op, a seemingly simple election for a state office in Nebraska turns into so much more.
Penny, an energetic candidate struggling to find a platform, hires Francine, an almost-manic speech writer who views this campaign as her chance for a real political career. Francine’s path seems to be thwarted by Jeffrey, her physician husband, who wants a more traditional family life, complete with children. Jeffrey has issues of his own, as he bonds with Ben, a young patient whom he can’t bring to tell is dying of cancer. Ben is committed to his own cause and involves the doctor in his plan.
This play deals with many issues that resonant with our political climate today. Francine considers Penny stupid, one who speaks in word salads and is simply a “choice figurehead” for office. She continues to advance Penny’s campaign while she struggles with the limitations of her candidate.
Jeffrey, meanwhile, begins to buy into the strange ideas of Ben, who believes that Nebraska is on a path to become a totalitarian regime. The ending is a complete surprise.
The actors do a wonderful job and are totally invested in their characters. The actress playing Francine has been ill for a few performances and this part was played the night of the review by the assistant-director Rebekah Farr, who does a fantastic job. Maggie Marks (Penny,) Matthew Scales (Jeffrey) and Ekene Ikegwauni (Ben) complete the talented cast.
This show is frequently promoted as a dark comedy but this is not how I would describe it. It’s an intriguing story, to be sure, and does leave one questioning our future and the paths this country could be headed.
One other note: this show is for mature audiences. The Constructivists’ website does warn of many issues, including: strong language, violence and sexually graphic gestures and actions.
“The Totalitarians” runs through October 29.