It’s the play that put Arthur Miller on the map; though not one of his more famous plays, such as The Crucible or Death of a Salesman, it’s in a similar vein nevertheless. Miller explores the human condition — a very male-centric one, but along with it, he questions the patriarchy and the capitalist structures that cloak the American dream. All My Sons knocks you out, delivering punch after punch of pure family drama.
It’s post World War II, and in a nondescript American town reside the Kellers: Joe (Christian Phillips), Kate (Bonnie DeChant), and Chris (Dean Koya). They’ve each been grappling with the loss of son and brother Larry, a pilot who’s been MIA for years. Kate clings to the hope of his return, insisting he is still alive. Joe and Chris are much more realistic; they have decided to move on.
Entering the scene are two new neighbors, one couple full of gossip and self-interest; the other couple a classic case of turn-the-other-way. And next an old neighbor enters: Ann Deever (Marie-Claire Erdynast), whose father was imprisoned for knowingly sending off damaged aircraft parts. She’s Larry’s girl, but she’s since moved on, and has been secretly corresponding with Chris.
Chris struggles telling his mother; the immensity of proposing to Ann would mean that Kate would have to finally accept that Larry is gone. Chris carries the guilt of the good son/bad son, and the delay is exacerbated when Ann’s brother George returns to cause a stir. George is played with perfection by Gabriel A. Ross, who manages George’s beats with clarity. He’s angry, and he’s not going home without unburdening the years of injustice he has been carrying.
At the root of the play are lingering questions critiquing the ubiquitous American Dream: how much are you willing to sacrifice for the greater good at the expense of your survival? What morals do we value in a capitalist society? Is it possible to be a “good” person?
Every character holds on to their truth, shielding their secret knowledge. Even seemingly benign ones, like Sue (Susan Trishel Monson) bring blows to the ring. Monson is superb, with a fiery charisma, and her final match crashes down with intensity.
Speaking of crashing, look for the symbolic set design work done by Robert Golden. You might miss it, but try to get a closer glimpse when you catch the show to find his Easter egg for the audience.
All My Sons is playing at the Danville Village Theatre now through September 16. For more information about the Role Players Ensemble, and to purchase tickets, visit www.roleplayersensemble.com.
Tickets also may be purchased at www.villagetheatreshows.com or call 925-314-3400. Box Office available starting one hour before each performance at the Village Theatre & Gallery, 233 Front Street, Danville, CA 94526.
