The Elephant Man

A Theater Review

Currently at the Erie Playhouse is a Tony Award-winning tale of a person so initially
downtrodden that all he aspired to be was recognized as a human being.

“The Elephant Man” by Bernard Pomerance tells the true-life story of  John Merrick, a
man afflicted with odd skin, facial and bone afflictions that were so horrific that he became a freak show attraction in late 19th century England.

Mistreated and eventually abandoned by his manager/owner, he finds salvation with a
kindhearted young physician, Frederick Treves, who, after showcasing Merrick to other
physicians, becomes his guardian. Treves tends to the ill man’s afflictions the best he can and seeks to allow Merrick to be treated as a regular person despite his condition.

With actual photographs of Merrick and simple narration beamed on the set’s
background, the story proceeds to illustrate Merrick’s evolution from the dregs of society to a thoughtful educated person.    However, Merrick still wants more…

Directed by Carolin Lynn, her cast and crew present a somber but uplifting tale that, if
anything, makes us appreciate ourselves and our (mis)fortunes in a brighter light. Zach Flock’s portrayal of the “Elephant Man” is a serious study in acting.    With no makeup or theatrical accoutrements to add to his performance, Flock’s own body demonstrates a heavy limp on a twisted leg and a speech impairment that nonetheless gives the audience the actual sense of Merrick, a man accursed by nature.    Howard Lang’s role as Dr. Treves is a quiet study in kindness and compassion—quite different from “Ross,” Merrick’s freak-show manager, played by Nick Iacobucci, whose only concern is for himself and the almighty dollar.

Though I didn’t see the 1980 film, I kept waiting for the quote that everyone knows: “I am
not an animal! I am a human being!”    But no go.    At least in the play.

Little bit of a bummer, but oh, well.

That said, don’t miss the chance to see this touching “elephant man”-turned-respectedgentleman’s tale.

See you in the balcony! XOXO

***Thea Tah

The Elephant Man continues through October. For more information, visit
erieplayhouse.org.
     
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