‘the glance’ paints a powerful portrait of artist

By Katherine Beeson

Published March 4, 2020

Caravaggio (1571-1610) is one of the lesser-known of the old
masters. His paintings were a mix of realism and naturalistic styles and he was a strong influence on the mannerism artists. The use of shadow and light were dominant in his works. He was an artistic genius as well as a murderer,I and his story is steeped in his own shadows and lights. 

Dale Gutzman, owner of Off the Wall Theatre, brings the
story of Caravaggio to life in his own work, “The Glance.” As Gutzman tells the audience beforehand, this story is “basically true” and took the playwright five years to execute. These were five well-spent years.

In “The Glance,” Caravaggio, (known in this play by his
first name, Michael and referred to as The Artist), has taken refuge in a studio in Milan in the late 1500s after fleeing the scene of the murder. Archbishop Borromeo of Milan promises to shield the young artist from those seeking to avenge the death and to serve as his patron, but only if Michael promises to show decorum in his paintings – specifically the painting referred to as “The Baptist.” The Archbishop is drawn to “the glance” of St. John – the
look a painted subject bestows upon the person viewing it – but Michael’s use of nudity and even the inclusion of a dog disgusts the holy man who insists the painting must be changed in order to adhere to biblical standards. Michael defends his art and refuses to compromise, even as the life of his brother, Giovanni, is threatened. 

Max Williamson is absolutely mesmerizing as Michael. He
exudes sensuality and intensity and his portrayal is amazing. Nathan Danzer as Giovanni brings a raw sexuality to a man who accepts his life as it is, but is more open to change. Their fraternal chemistry is an integral part of the story. Michael Pocaro gives a strong performance as the Archbishop who totters between acknowledging the theatricality of many aspects of the Catholic faith and his own almost unbalanced pure religious fervor. 

“The Glance” begins with a necessary narration-as-dialogue
to bring the audience into the story, but after that, the characters take over and deliver an intense, powerful performance.

IF YOU GO:

Who: Off the Wall Theatre

What: “The Glance”

When: Through March 8

Where: Off the Wall Theatre, 127 E. Wells St., Milwaukee

Info/Tickets: Offthewallmke.com