Given that mentally challenged individuals are often wiser about the deeper aspects of life than supposedly more sophisticated people, it’s perhaps unsurprising that playwrights and screenwriters are often attracted to such folks as heroes of dramas. Whether it’s “Rain Man” or “Forrest Gump,” the message is invariably that life is clearer and more worthwhile if seen through eyes less sullied by the need for money, power and control.
That’s also the rough premise behind Jim Henry’s new play, “The Angels of Lemnos,” directed by Robin Stanton, currently receiving a strong premiere at the Chicago Dramatists. As one watches this overly sentimental tale of a childlike man named Nathan Spandrel who eventually becomes homeless on city streets, one becomes struck by how hard it is to avoid the cliches of this genre.
Despite the unquestioned appeal of the central character here, many of us have become hardened to the overly familiar messages of this play and the less-than-credible figures who populate its world: the older bum with a heart of gold; the kind but ultimately ineffectual mother; the sweet but mentally handicapped girlfriend; the simple hero whose genuine kindness touches everyone and everything he contacts. It’s all very charming, but neither new nor entirely convincing.
That’s not to say Henry lacks talent. On the contrary, he writes in a warm manner and has a gently poetic style that’s very appealing. He’s just in well-worn territory here.
There’s nothing worn, though, about Stanton’s excellent ensemble-driven production. Ably and fluidly directed and featuring a truly exceptional performance from Chaney Kley Minnis in the lead role of Nathan Spandrel, Stanton’s enjoyable show uses its talented ensemble to excellent effect.
Minnis is never condescending toward his character and is consistently convincing. Larry Neumann Jr. offers a whimsical turn as Nathan’s older friend on the streets, while the other players here are all highly effective. And, as is typical in her outstanding directing work, Stanton uses a small space to create any number of interesting visual pictures.
Henry’s saccharin view of the world here may sometimes seem derivative and contrived. But this is a writer with potential. And there’s no doubting the earnestness of everyone involved in this idealistic piece of theater.
———-
“The Angels of Lemnos”
Where: Chicago Dramatists, 1102 W. Chicago Ave.
When: Through April 26
Call: (312) 633-0630.
