BWW Reviews: Actors' Express EQUUS- Challenging, Astounding Theatre

"Equus", now playing through April 21st at Actor's Express, is not a show that will appeal to everyone as it treads not so lightly on a number of rather taboo issues. That being said, if your sensibilities are not easily rattled, you will no doubt be astounded by the insight, artistry, and ability of AE's extraordinary cast, under the precision direction of David Crowe.

Anyone familiar with Peter Shaffer's Tony Award-winning play will know that the show's challenging content centers on a teenaged boy's religious and sexual infatuation with horses. However, in Crowe's production, the show's most appalling acts are framed not to offend or titulate, but rather as tools to explore the deeper fears and pains found within its main characters; specifically the aforementioned teenager, Alan Strang, and his psychiatrist, Martin Dysart.

Played respectively by Kyle Brumley (John Quincy Adams in AE's recent "Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson") and one of Atlanta's preeminent actors, Chris Kayser (12-time Suzi Bass Award nominee and two-time winner), these two characters reluctantly help each other face their unique personal pains and their own individual obsessions. The process is neither easy nor exact for either, as they struggle with the realization that while their relationship might ultimately lead them to a better place, that it won't be an easy path getting there.

While the story centers on the actions and illness of Strang, the audience views it through Dysart's eyes. In such, the doctor speaks candidly about his crippling self-doubt, failing marriage, and "professional menopause." Kayser's performance is one that conveys a calm and calculating front that all the while is hiding a palpable desperation that slowly looks to be overcoming his controlled exterior. Kayser is again masterful in portraying a man far more complex than perhaps even he realizes. Additionally, Brumley is able to do what few would even imagine possible in turning this sick and demented boy into a nearly sympathetic figure.

The remainder of the cast, many of which sit on stage observing nearly all of the play's action, is peppered with layered and honest performances. Chief among them are Strang's parents, played by Joanna Daniel and Rial Ellsworth. They are seen as opposing sides of an ultimately loving relationship. While they are ashamed and terrified by their son's actions, they both harbor the fear that, despite their best efforts, they might ultimately bear some of their son's blame. Additionally, Suzi winner for last season's "Fairytale Lives of Russian Girls" at the Alliance, Sarah Elizabeth Wallis shines as the coquettish Jill Mason, who indirectly fuels Strang's most unimaginable acts, and ultimately his desire to heal.

One of the show's greatest artistic feats is found in its stable of six actors playing the horses. In the days where we are accustomed to seeing actors portray animals on stage in shows like Disney's "The Lion King" and "War Horse", the simple costuming and deft movements of this ensemble (created by movement coach Anna Leo) convey a realistic and regal herd.

The set, designed by the two-time Suzi winners Isabel and Moriah Curley-Clay (the sisters also supplied the costume designs), is simple, but nuanced, allowing the audience to focus on Shaffer's intricate dialogue and the actors' rich and moving performances. To fully appreciate the set, I suggest choosing seats across from the stage's back wall.

While the show is known primarily for its on-stage nudity and Strang's unthinkable acts, it truly centers on the examination of what and how we worship, and the question of whether an individual is defined by his pains or his potential. "Equus", which runs two-and-a-half hours with an intermission, is playing at Actor's Express at the King Plow Arts Center through April 21st. Tickets can be purchased by calling 404-607-SHOW (7469) or by visiting their website.

Photo:Kyle Brumley (Alan Strang) and Chris Kayser (Dr. Martin Dysart)
Photo Credit: BreeAnne Clowdus

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