**** Recommended Remy Bumppo’s production of Dear Elizabeth is a unique and charming little play. It’s unique because the characters were real people, renowned American poets, Elzabeth Bishop (Leah Karper) and Robert “Cal” Lowell (Christopher Sheard). Apparently, playwright Sarah Ruhl ran across their letters and decided the content would make a play. Kudos to Director Christina Casano for this fascinating glimpse into the lives of two literary giants. 4 Spotlights
Robert Lowell and Elizabeth Bishop met in 1947. Through their letters – written from when they met in 1947 until Lowell’s death in 1977 – they became lifelong friends although they rarely met in person, leading separate but parallel lives. They were both acclaimed writers – he won the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1947 and 1974, she won a Pulitzer in 1956.
Sarah Ruhl selected just enough of their words to give us a picture of who they were, what they were doing, and where they were in the world and in their lives. Although they never talk directly to each other – except during a rare phone call – Karper and Sheard bring emotion and depth to their written words as they share their poetry, their stories and their relationships with each other. They become each other’s muse and critic, in a way as they have passionate discussions about particular words.
In this two-person play, the entire success of the production depends on the acting chops of the stars. I’m happy to say that Karper and Sheard have an uncanny ability to portray the deep friendship – even love - that Bishop and Lowell had for each other. As they shared humorous anecdotes, insight into their relationships with different partners, their travels, their accomplishments and, of course, their work, they never looked into the other’s eyes. Remy Bumppo Scenic Designer Catalina Niño placed two desks, one on each side of the stage. Both are surrounded by piles of books and other accoutrements of a writer. The space between the desks represents the distance and/or all the obstacles between them, except on the rare occasions when they met in person.
The Remy Bumppo production of Dear Elizabeth runs through November 17th at Theater Wit, 1229 W. Belmont Avenue, Chicago. Park in Theater Wit’s lot across the street for $10 (pay at box office).
Running time consists of two 45 minute acts, with an intermission. Performances are Thursdays through Saturdays at 7:30 pm, Sundays at 2:30 pm, with additional matinees on Saturdays, November 2nd & 16th, and Thursday, November 7th, all at 2:30 p.m. Tickets range from $15-$55. FYI (773) 975-8150 or www.remybumppo.org.