The world of theatre is a fascinating one, and the story of Dion Boucicault's 'The Shaughraun' is a testament to its enduring appeal and evolving nature. Boucicault, once hailed as a 'conspicuous dramatist' by The New York Times, is now experiencing a resurgence in popularity thanks to the Druid Theatre Company's bold decision to stage his play. This decision is not just about reviving a Victorian melodrama; it's about re-examining Boucicault's legacy and his influence on modern Irish theatre. This article delves into the intriguing reasons behind this revival, the creative process behind it, and the personal insights of the actors involved.
A Legacy in Question
Boucicault's reputation has suffered a decline since his death in 1890, as tastes shifted towards realism and psychological drama. His elaborate plots, heightened emotions, and larger-than-life Irish characters seemed old-fashioned in comparison. This shift in taste raises a deeper question: how do we re-evaluate and appreciate the works of playwrights who were once celebrated but have since fallen out of favor? The Druid Theatre Company's approach to 'The Shaughraun' is a fascinating answer to this question.
A Play for the Audience
Garry Hynes, the company's artistic director, argues that Boucicault lies at the root of modern Irish theatre. By pairing 'The Shaughraun' with Eugene O'Neill's 'Moon for the Misbegotten', Druid is inviting audiences to reconsider Boucicault's legacy, politics, and the extent to which his work continues to influence modern plays. This pairing is not just a revival; it's a conversation starter, encouraging us to think about the evolution of theatrical forms and the interconnectedness of Irish and American theatre.
The Challenge of Melodrama
The central problem, as Hynes sees it, is that 'The Shaughraun' cannot be treated as modern psychological realism. Melodrama, with its codified theatrical form, rhythms, conventions, and logic, is a delicate balance to master. Ignoring these rules can lead to a play that falls apart. Hynes's second encounter with the play, now with the perspective of a 73-year-old, brings a wealth of experience to the production, ensuring that the play's essence is preserved while connecting with modern audiences.
Visual Storytelling
The production's visual language is a key element in this revival. Francis O'Connor's set design, featuring a 19th-century Ordnance Survey map of Ireland, serves multiple purposes. It links Boucicault's west of Ireland with O'Neill's United States, creating a powerful visual metaphor. The map also provides a practical playground for Boucicault's exuberant theatrical imagination, allowing the company to realize various scenes without relying on big-budget machinery.
The Cast's Perspective
The actors, including Aaron Monaghan and Rory Nolan, approach the material with complete seriousness, avoiding the trap of treating Boucicault as camp. Nolan, playing the villain Corry Kinchela, emphasizes the importance of playing the character with emotional reality, drawing connections to other roles he has played. Monaghan, who plays Conn, the Shaughraun, believes that modern audiences have been conditioned to distrust heightened emotion, but that it can be powerful if embraced.
Boucicault's Political Subtlety
Monaghan's reassessment of Boucicault's genius comes from a deeper understanding of his politics. Boucicault, writing for London and New York audiences, quietly undermined stereotypes while keeping them happy. In 'The Shaughraun', he presents the rogues and vagabonds as the true heroes, outwitting the establishment and moving between the cracks of things. This political subtlety is a key aspect of Boucicault's genius, as he knew how to hear a gag and deliver lines with the right rhythm.
The Enduring Influence of Boucicault
Rory Nolan sees Boucicault's influence running through almost every big Irish playwright who followed. From Beckett to Synge to O'Casey, Boucicault's work is a constant reference point. This influence is not just in the plays themselves but in the way they are performed and interpreted. The Druid Theatre Company's revival of 'The Shaughraun' is a testament to Boucicault's enduring impact on the world of theatre.
Conclusion
The Druid Theatre Company's decision to stage 'The Shaughraun' is a bold and intriguing move, inviting audiences to reconsider a playwright who was once celebrated but has since fallen out of favor. By exploring Boucicault's legacy, politics, and influence, the company is not just reviving a play but engaging in a deeper conversation about the evolution of theatrical forms and the interconnectedness of Irish and American theatre. This revival is a reminder that the world of theatre is ever-evolving, and the works of playwrights like Boucicault continue to shape and inspire new generations of artists and audiences alike.
