Invictus Theatre's Network is a timely and exhilarating theatrical experience
Network
THEATRE REVIEW
By Rudy S.
Headliner Chicago
THEATRE REVIEW
By Rudy S.
Headliner Chicago
I spent a majority of my career in television news, and Network was a movie that we studied and talked about often. Whether it was situations or characters, there was always some important take away and observation that is connected to this script.
At the heart of Network is the character Howard Beale, a beleaguered news anchor who, in a moment of existential crisis, declares he is "mad as hell" and is not going to take it anymore. His impassioned outburst becomes a media sensation, which becomes a ratings goldmine.
We get to experience his 'mad as hell' moment from Howard, corporate and the production crew at the station.
Fans first got to see Network on stage in 2017, when Bryan Cranston took over the lead role in the tony-Award winning Broadway production. Network now makes its Chicago premiere at Invictus Theatre which recently took over the Windy City playhouse location on Irving Park.
At the heart of Network is the character Howard Beale, a beleaguered news anchor who, in a moment of existential crisis, declares he is "mad as hell" and is not going to take it anymore. His impassioned outburst becomes a media sensation, which becomes a ratings goldmine.
We get to experience his 'mad as hell' moment from Howard, corporate and the production crew at the station.
Fans first got to see Network on stage in 2017, when Bryan Cranston took over the lead role in the tony-Award winning Broadway production. Network now makes its Chicago premiere at Invictus Theatre which recently took over the Windy City playhouse location on Irving Park.
photo courtesy of Invictus Theatre Company
Paddy Chayefsky's Network and Lee Hall's adaption for the stage remains as insightful and provocative today as it was when it premiered in 1976. This searing satire on media, corporate power, and the effects of television is a masterclass in theatrical brilliance, which continues to hold true to this day. This production brings the classic play to life with a fresh intensity that captivated audiences and underscored the play's relevance in our current media-saturated age.
The role of Beale is a towering challenge for any actor, and James Turano's performance was nothing short of extraordinary. Turano brings a raw, unrestrained energy to the role that was both electrifying and heartbreaking. Television media has changed over the years, but especially in Chicago when viewers tune in to see a specific anchor or host, we can all imagine how we would react to seeing our favorite or trusted news anchor go through something similar. Would it make us turn off the television, would we want to watch more often?
The role of Beale is a towering challenge for any actor, and James Turano's performance was nothing short of extraordinary. Turano brings a raw, unrestrained energy to the role that was both electrifying and heartbreaking. Television media has changed over the years, but especially in Chicago when viewers tune in to see a specific anchor or host, we can all imagine how we would react to seeing our favorite or trusted news anchor go through something similar. Would it make us turn off the television, would we want to watch more often?
photo courtesy of Invictus Theatre Company
Get there early to get the full experience of the actors getting ready for their 'broadcast' and enjoy the vintage set and atmosphere that brings so many authentic props and visuals from the 1970's to this space. The stars and entire ensemble are incredible and all take us back to this era with their embodiment of retro attire and television studio props.
This production of Network is a thought-provoking and exhilarating theatrical experience. It serves as a powerful reminder of the ethical pitfalls of media sensationalism and the human cost of corporation's power and influence.
This production of Network is a thought-provoking and exhilarating theatrical experience. It serves as a powerful reminder of the ethical pitfalls of media sensationalism and the human cost of corporation's power and influence.
3.5 stars (out of four)
Network
Now Playing through September 29
Invictus Theatre Company
3014 West Irving Park
Chicago, Illinois
Invictustheatreco.com/network
Network
Now Playing through September 29
Invictus Theatre Company
3014 West Irving Park
Chicago, Illinois
Invictustheatreco.com/network