What I liked
Joe Coffey brings nuance and complexity to characters that would be easy to paint as black or white. His portrayal of each of the Bulger men prevents us from labeling or dismissing these complex figures. Instead, Joe invites us to understand and identify with their humanity: their joys and fears, their wounds and frustrations, and their deepest desires for more. Story aside, Joe fully embodied the personalities and quirks of these characters, jumping between mannerisms and postures with frighteningly effective speed and believability. The experience of this one-man performance cannot help but grow respect and empathy for these historical characters, and stir awe for a master actor in his craft.
Joe got me to believe and understand the emotions of each character. I identified with Jimmy, Billy, and Sr.. and was impressed with the nuance he brought to Billy’s character, helping me to understand why he would be so torn between his calling and his promise to his father. He was in an impossible situation that he had no real power to fix, only patch up. In short, the play helps us to see him as an individual man, not as someone seen through the lens of his gangster brother.
It takes incredible skill and mastery, not just as an actor but in physicality to jump between mannerisms, emotions, and posture. I am astonished at what Joe pulled off in a one-man play.
What I didn't like
Joe’s rendition of the male characters is so strong, it was easy to forget we were watching an actor as he embodied the roles of Sr., Whitey, and Billy. Because of this, it was harder to forget it was a male actor playing the female parts as well. A stronger embodiment of the female roles will create a truly immersive theatrical experience, giving voice and lending empathy to all of the Bulger family members.
My overall impression
Joe Coffey’s one-man play “Bulger Boys” was simply stunning. Joe clearly did his research in crafting this narrative. He made full use of the stage, every action, posture, and movement, motivated by strong story purposes. This created a visually complex and engaging show to watch.
