What I liked
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What I didn't like
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My overall impression
Inspired by the true story of Lucy, Chimpskin is about a chimpanzee that was raised as a human by psychoanalyst Maurice and his wife Jane Temerlin. They raised her for 11 years, and when she became too difficult to take care of, abandoned her in an African chimpanzee colony. This devised piece by the Puckwit Gang beautifuly depicts her life story through evocative movement, haunting music, and strong performances from the ensemble. Special mention is necessary for Damla Coskun as Lucy: her movements are specific and chimp-like while bringing a humanity to this creature who is eventually abandoned by her “parents.”
Director Ben Landmesser allows inventive movement to tell the story when words aren’t enough. Most effective is the use of white masks representing the wild animal (within and in the jungle). Pablo Castelblanco (who plays the son Steve and others) as the wild animal moves with such jagged precision and commitment that is both terrifying and hypnotizing. Likewise, the choreography depicting Lucy being taken away from her chimp mother at the beginning and its repetition when she’s taken from her human mother towards the end brings this emotional journey full circle. Although the middle portion could use some tightening, Landmesser and his superb ensemble have put together a powerful show that draws you in and breaks your heart.
