In a powerful opening moment in Pioneer Theatre Company’s Prayer for the French Republic, the stage sits in silence for a full 30 seconds, setting a foreboding tone that foreshadows much of what’s to come.
Prayer for the French Republic by Joshua Harmon is a multi-generational drama exploring the struggles and resilience of a Jewish family in France. Spanning 70 years, the play follows the Salomon-Benhamou family, tracing their experiences from the trauma of World War II to rising antisemitism in contemporary France. It interweaves the family’s personal stories with larger historical events, exploring questions of identity, belonging and survival. As the family faces mounting challenges and fear for their future, they grapple with the enduring impact of history and the strength needed to maintain faith in their homeland.
This production skillfully intertwines two time periods, and the theme of duality is emphasized in nearly every facet—from the sets and costumes to the props and hair/makeup. Bryce Cutler’s set design is particularly notable, with clever wall transitions that alter the stage’s appearance and entrances with a fluidity that captivates. Jose Santiago’s lighting choices, especially during the prayer scene, enhance the significance of the French Republic to the story, deepening the emotional weight of the scenes.
The actors’ line delivery feels authentic and grounded; each one exhibits an impressive mastery of character. The self-confidence, stubbornness, and often abrasive nature of the characters make them strikingly real, and the actors’ portrayals bring nuance and empathy to these challenging personalities. The staging and blocking by Karen Azenberg are equally fascinating, adding depth to the audience’s perspective. Moments where characters turn their backs to the audience subtly convey the sense of “looking into” the scene, rather than being within it, immersing the viewer in the characters’ complex world.
Family drama pulses through every scene, with unrelenting arguments and moments of raw vulnerability. Act II brings unforgettable monologues from Robert Mammana, Kim Taff, and Jayne Luke, each performance stirring a mix of emotions. Molly, a distant American cousin, witnesses antisemitism faced by her family. This uncomfortable but crucial lens forces the audience into a passive position, where they can empathize but feel powerless to intervene, mirroring the experience of those affected by such prejudice. Playwright Joshua Harmon succeeds in making the audience feel the intensity and helplessness that come with religious persecution.
The political undertones are undeniable, sparking discourse around American and international politics, and adding depth to an already complex narrative. Costume design by Susan Branch Towne does an impressive job of depicting the two time periods, with some characters undergoing frequent costume changes while others remain almost constant—a contrast that may or may not be intentional but enhances the duality theme.
Overall, this production delivers a gripping portrayal of family, faith, and resilience. It’s an honest exploration of religious persecution, full of weighty political viewpoints and moments of reflection. With intense scenes and themes, trigger warnings for language, mental health discussions, and talk of death and suicide are warranted. In a production that provokes and challenges, a line captures the heart of the play: “You can fight for what’s right anywhere, but you have to be alive to do it.”
- WHAT: Pioneer Theatre Company’s Prayer for the French Republic
WHEN: Oct. 25 through Nov. 9, 2024
WHERE: Simmons Pioneer Memorial Theatre
TICKETS AND INFO: pioneertheater.org
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