by Claire DeMarco
In a modern regime somewhere near ancient Mesopotamia, the citizens are uprising. They’ve had enough with corruption and the state of their country. The president of this mythical country has already fled for parts unknown.
His wife, First Lady Ishtar (Elizabeth Elias Huffman), totally oblivious doesn’t know her husband has left. Nor does she realize that the country is in turmoil.
In an attempt to tamp down the growing unrest, Ishtar’s Chief of Staff Elish (Doren Elias) is tasked with having her deliver a speech to the nation. Most of those remaining in power don’t think this will work as Ishtar is thought of as self-absorbed, a bit of a ditz. But they proceed in spite of misgivings, hoping that her speech will help to stabilize growing tensions.
Local reporter Yasmine (Milia Ayache), assigned to interview Ishtar for this televised event soon discovers that although she’ll be asking the questions, the questions have already been crafted for her.
Gazal (Treasure Treasure) is Ishtar’s assistant, a trans who totally supports her mistress, addresses her every need. One of Ishtar’s redeeming qualities is her acceptance of Gazal in a country not prone to diverse lifestyles.
After many iterations of taping a message to the masses and not meeting the moment, Ishtar is confronted with the real state of affairs.
What begins as political satire transitions into thought-provoking memories and confrontations of past injustices and indifference.
Beneath the comedy lies a serious layer of intrigue and deception. Disconnected hierarchy at the top of many governments that are totally oblivious about the concerns of their masses, is unfortunately, not unique.
Elias Huffman owns the stage as an authoritarian first lady out of touch with the real world. Her comedic timing is spot on through her attempts at addressing the nation. She becomes more aggressive as she is confronted with the reality of her situation. Excellent execution of facial expressions, double takes and physical movement.
As the faithful chief of staff Elias understands Ishtar’s plight. He possesses a cool and collective approach in handling Ishtar through many iterations of the “address to the nation”. He delivers a controlled narrative and as the outside turmoil increases, he reflects on his many years of service to the leader and Ishtar.
Ayache is convincing as the timid, inexperienced, ethical reporter assigned to interview the first lady with questions she feels appropriate to ask. As the story progresses, she easily transitions to a vocal, determined woman whose ulterior motives involve more than reporting.
Treasure’s facial expressions and physical movements are exceptional. As her character becomes more involved in the situation at the palace, her theatrics take on more extreme moves. Singing an excerpt from “Don’t Cry for Me, Argentina” sung from the top rung of a step ladder is hilarious. It’s a quick moment but spot on!
“First Lady” was written by Sedef Ecer and translated by Amelia Parenteau.
Kudos to the design team – Scott Andrew, Sasha Jin Schwartz, Anthony Del Grosso, Madeleine Steineck, Alex Keplar and James Dworek and Randy Kovitz. This is a beautifully done artistic production. Excellent use of technology, special effects, lighting, sound and media design from this talented group.
Special recognition to E.E. Huffman for Costume Design.
Excellent direction by Adil Mansoor.
The word International is part of PICT’s identity and how appropriate – an international playwright and French-to-English translator and the U.S. world premiere of a unique play.
-CED
“First Lady” runs from October 2nd to October 11th at Carnegie Stage, 25 West Main Street, Carnegie, PA. 15106. For tickets and additional information, click here.
