Pauline Adamek – ArtsBeatLA
Given the chance to embody John Merrick—aka ‘The Elephant Man’—on stage is probably something most actors would jump at with the same alacrity they would for the opportunity to tackle Hamlet or Richard III. It’s certainly a supremely challenging role, both physically and emotionally. For a highly limited run—only this weekend and next—you can see Mark McClain Wilson brilliantly portraying John Merrick in a new production of Bernard Pomerance’s The Elephant Man. Using only his voice and contorted physicality, Wilson transforms himself into the grotesquely deformed turn-of-the-century tragic figure, who went from a freak sideshow attraction to becoming feted by London’s high society. Wilson’s performance is emotionally gripping, exquisitely conveying the gentleness, intelligence and dignity of this strange, often gawked at and repelled fellow. Read more…
Now playing through February 8.