The Essence of "Inherit the Wind": A Celebration of Intellectual Freedom

"Inherit the Wind" at Arena Stage: A Thought-Provoking Revival

From now through April 5, Arena Stage is showcasing a compelling revival of "Inherit the Wind," a production originally debuting on Broadway in 1955. Situated in the fictional southern town of Hillsboro, this play transcends its setting to explore the profound themes of intellectual freedom and the inherent right to think independently. Under the direction of the talented Ryan Guzzo Purcell, this rendition manages to bring the vibrancy and complexity of the original with a contemporary ensemble of only ten actors.

The play draws inspiration from the historical Scopes Monkey Trial of 1925, where a Tennessee educator was infamously tried for teaching evolution. Authors Jerome Lawrence and Robert E. Lee use this historical backdrop to create a narrative that challenges the societal norms of their time, taking a strong stance against McCarthyism by emphasizing the freedom of thought.

In this adaptation, Bertram Cates, played by Noah Plomgren, finds himself at the center of a heated legal battle. In his defense stands Henry Drummond, portrayed by Billy Eugene Jones, while the prosecution is led by the fervent conservative, Matthew Harrison Brady, played by Dakin Matthew. Adding a modern twist, the story is narrated through the lens of E.K. Horneck, a savvy Baltimore reporter brought to life by nonbinary actor Alyssa Keegan.

Celebrating Diversity on Stage

A key highlight of the production is the presence of Holly Twyford, a renowned out actor and four-time Helen Hayes Award recipient, who enriches the ensemble with her dynamic portrayal of multiple roles. Twyford steps into the shoes of Meeker, the amiable courthouse bailiff, and even takes on the role of Sillers, a simple yet earnest juror. Additionally, she embodies Sarah, the steadfast and supportive wife of Brady, offering depth and nuance to the narrative.

Twyford's entrance as Meeker is both memorable and engaging, depicted with a touch of humor as she wipes shaving cream from her face. The casual nature of Hillsboro’s jail is reflected in Meeker’s light-hearted management, highlighting the humanity found within the story's characters.

Costuming plays a crucial role in shaping both the actors’ performances and the audience’s perception. Twyford shares insights into how the transformation from one character to another is influenced significantly by the clothing, noting how an ensemble character's demeanor can shift with a change of shoes or a hat. This subtle attention to detail by the wardrobe team enhances the authenticity of the production.

The Power of Ensemble

The ensemble’s dynamic extends beyond their impressive onstage performances. During rehearsals, the actors naturally began to assist each other with costume changes, an organic evolution noticed and encouraged by director Purcell. This collaborative effort fostered a sense of unity and contributed to the vibrant energy seen in the final production.

Reflecting on past experiences, Twyford draws parallels with "The Laramie Project," where actors seamlessly transitioned between multiple roles, enhancing the storytelling through collaboration. This spirit of cooperation and mutual support is palpable, adding a layer of depth to "Inherit the Wind" at Arena Stage.

A Modern Message

While "Inherit the Wind" is often perceived as a confrontation between science and religion, it fundamentally advocates for the freedom of thought—a message that resonates strongly in today’s sociopolitical climate. As playwright Jerome Lawrence famously stated, the play's core is about the right to think, a sentiment that remains profoundly relevant.

Twyford recalls a conversation at a salon, where a fellow patron expressed fatigue with message-driven theater. In contrast, "Inherit the Wind" strikes a balance between entertainment and thought-provoking dialogue, offering audiences a creative exploration of diverse opinions.

By presenting a spectrum of perspectives, the production encourages audiences to engage in meaningful reflection, advocating that it is neither right nor wrong to express one's own beliefs. This nuanced portrayal invites viewers to appreciate the importance of intellectual freedom in a world often polarized by differing viewpoints.

Arena Stage’s revival of "Inherit the Wind" not only pays homage to its theatrical legacy but also rejuvenates its core themes for a modern audience. Through a celebration of diverse voices and collaborative storytelling, it underscores the timeless and vital message that the freedom to think is a fundamental human right that should be fiercely protected.

Tags: theater, LGBTQ, intellectual freedom, diversity, Arena Stage