I had really been looking forward to The Dragon, adapted by my friend
Alison Vodnoy, and starring people and Madcap Puppets, with musicians in the background (when they’re not being puppeteers). Reviews have been not exactly mixed – critics have either loved it or not.
Count me among those who love this allegory about the necessity for us humans to become conscious and take responsibility for our own lives. And develop the skill to be able to look straight on at our own choices and our communities.
The human Dragon (who is afraid of the human Cat) gives a masterful performance. The low constant growl is so animal that one soon forgets. His cruelty which is more human than animal (though we try not to think so) covers the stage and the puppets with grayness and fear. They betray themselves and each other. They also betray Lancelot, who has come to save them, giving him a cookie sheet as a shield and a proclamation as a sword. The outliers, the weirdos, in the town provide the weapons.
The battle is overhead amongst smoke and noise, beautifully nuanced. And the little boy speaks the truth as the adults continue to lie. The Dragon is dead – and that’s just the end of the first act. Now the work of those frail humans to claim their town must begin, since there is no one else to blame any more.
The play is running through May 7. This is edgy and powerful theater worth seeing. For only 12 bucks. Get there.