What I liked
The show’s combination of acting, costumes, and set design allowed for an immersive setting in Ford’s Theater. The use of space on stage was well-done, in particular the demarcation of the upstairs ‘stage’ vs the downstairs backstage. The use of blood as a signifier of scenes set pre- and post- assassination was an interesting and accessible detail. From the audience, I felt like I really was getting a glimpse to the past right up until the moment the show was over and the lights came on. Additionally, the actors all appeared to have seamless chemistry with one another that fueled the mystery and intrigue of whose side were the character’s really on (conspirator or not).
What I didn't like
It would have been nice to have had more equal focus on each of the characters, especially in flashbacks assassination, and flesh out more of John’s character and motivations. However, that’s hard to do in 45 minutes!
My overall impression
An intriguing concept – what exactly went on backstage at Ford’s Theater after the Lincoln Assassination? – that was artfully executed by a talented group of actors with seamless chemistry. Our American Tragedy is a fantastic drama that brings to light a stage that hasn’t usually been set, highlighting the wounds and anxieties of a divided America among those that bore witness to (or perhaps aided in?) one of the defining moments in American History. In the future I’d love to see this show in an extended format!
