EVREN ODCIKIN
MACHINAL by Sophie Treadwell
Brava Theater Center, San Francisco (2009)
Considered one of the high points of expressionist theater in American stage history, this 1928 drama is inspired by the true story of convicted and executed murderess Ruth Snyder. This powerful tale of one woman's isolation is told with a unique juxtaposition of domestic drama, fast-paced language, an experimental soundscape, striking modern visuals, and period costumes.
"Top 10 Productions of 2009... Odcikin’s stylish and intimate take on the Impressionist classic of marriage as wage slavery Machinal packs a wallop.”
—The Idiolect
Three Bay Area Theatre Critics' Circle Award nominations, including best production and best director
"A brave, unflinching, and honest production… The restraint shown by the director's intelligent vision and the cast's note-perfect performances furnishes a potent examination of ourselves."
—SF Appeal
"Odcikin’s chamber version offers revelations of the drama within the sharp satire and adventurous fractured dialogue. His close-up take helps clarify the staying power of a drama that was a passing sensation of its time. Staged in the round with seven actors playing all the roles — sometimes from the aisles or front-row seats — the production puts Treadwell's characters, staccato dialogue and episodic structure under a microscope."
—San Francisco Chronicle
Cast
Linda Ayres-Frederick, Madeline Brown, Matthew Chavez, Lawrence Radecker, Randy Rollison, Juliet Tanner, Christopher White
Creative Team
Sonia Fernandez (dramaturg), Jarrod Fischer (lighting design), Mary Gabrysiak (stage manager), Josh Goldstein Peek (scenic design), Steven Lamont (costume design), Will McCandless (sound design)