In an attic of an older building in Toronto, we are tranpsorted to late 19th century London, England.
Wren Theatre‘s production of The Elephant Man reminds us of John Merrick (Jordan Imray), as he is known in the play by Bernard Pomerance. Merrick, a horribly deformed young man – living with a rare skin and bone diseases – becomes the star freak attraction in traveling sideshows. Found abandoned and helpless, he is admitted to London’s prestigious Whitechapel Hospital.
While under the care of celebrated young physician Frederick Treves (Robert Notman), Merrick is introduced to London society including well-known actor Mrs. Kendall (Karen Scobie). He slowly evolves from an object of pity to an urbane and witty favourite of the aristocracy and literati, only to be denied his ultimate dream – to become a man like any other.
Sharing my thoughts on this production, which I really appreciated as a new staging but also for the various themes it made me think about. Shoutouts to the entire cast, director Tatum Lee, and the production team, including Jaclyn Manishen, Olivia Aubrecht, Andy Lyberopoulos and Gillian Macleod.
The Elephant Man runs until May 28, 2023 at The Attic Theatre in Toronto. For tickets and show times, please visit wrentheatre.com.
Content Advisory: This production includes a scene of physical/psychological abuse and nudity. Audience discretion is advised.
